One of the events I particularly look forward to each year is the presentation of the Bishop’s Award for Service to the Church to lay volunteers. Each parish and diocesan agency or department may nominate one or two volunteers for the award which is presented each February at a special Mass at the Cathedral.
Saturday we recognized 146 men and women in a wonderful liturgical celebration and reception. It was a real family affair and it seemed that many people were enjoying themselves so much they hated to leave. Lots of fellowship, good food and I must add…lots of picture taking.
In the three years we have been presenting the awards we have recognized the work of nearly 350 lay people whose volunteer efforts are essential to the ministry programs of our parishes and diocese. You notice that I use the word volunteer, because only lay people who receive no compensation for their work are eligible.
In no way does this diminish the great work of our priests, deacons, religious, professional ministers and administrative personnel, but is intended to seek out and honor those whose work may not be known except by those with whom they volunteer.
I would be remiss not to acknowledge the efforts of diocesan staff members whose hours of planning made the award ceremony, the liturgy and reception such a success.
This post is also available in/Esta entrada también está disponible en: Spanish