It is time to recognize the work of our lay men and women.
Last week I sent a letter to all priests announcing the establishment of the Bishop’s Award for Service to the Church. The annual award is designed to recognize the lay men and women who give countless hours in service to the Church.
Each pastor is asked to nominate two lay people for the award which will be presented at a special Mass at the Cathedral Shrine of the Virgin of Guadalupe next February 11. The presentations will be followed by a reception in the Cathedral Grand Salon.
It is entirely fit and proper that we recognize lay volunteers who have given long and faithful service to the Church at the parish and/or diocesan level. Employees of the Church are not eligible.
The award will take the form of a bronze medallion with the crest of the Diocese on a green and gold ribbon to be worn around the neck. A certificate will also be presented.
Pastors will be asked to nominate two lay people each year for the Bishop’s Award for Service to the Church
The Second Vatican Council speaks of “the laity’s special and indispensible role in the Church, too often that role goes unrecognized. I hope that this annual award will begin to correct that situation and acknowledge the gifts of time, talent and treasure of lay men and women
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