2018 Lumen Gentium Award nominations now open

Posted

PROVIDENCE — Nominations for the 2018 Lu­men Gentium annual Catholic service awards, which recognize the efforts of many individuals and groups throughout the Diocese of Providence who work tirelessly in support of the work of the Church in their parishes, are now open online and will be accepted through 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 13.

The awards, which will be bestowed in 10 categories during a banquet on Wednesday, May 16 at the Twin River Event Center in Lincoln, will formally rec­ognize those who have made significant contribu­tions to the life of the Church in the diocese, work­ing tirelessly, and often without compensation or acclaim because of their devotion to the Church.

Groups, organizations and individuals — laity, clergy and religious — are eligible to be nominated. Although it is expected that those who are nominated will come from within the Catholic community, other nominees will also be considered, provided that they and their work are consistent with the teachings and mission of the Catholic Church.

A committee, under the leadership of Msgr. Albert A. Kenney, diocesan Vicar General/ Moderator of the Curia, will review nominees re­ceived through the online process, which is open to all in the Diocese of Providence. Final recommendations for the award are submitted to Bishop Thomas J. Tobin for his approval.

In 2012, Bishop Thomas J. Tobin convened a committee to establish an annual program to recognize individuals, groups and organizations for their service to the Catholic Church in the Diocese of Providence.

The annual event also serves as a fundraiser to support various social outreach programs and ministries of the diocese.

Since 2013, when the first awards were presented, the annual Lumen Gentium awards banquet has raised more than $300,000 in support of Catholic elder services, parish food pantries, Emmanuel House (the diocesan homeless shelter), and Catholic education.

This year, proceeds from the event will be used to help support diocesan Hispanic ministries.

Categories for Service Awards are: Parish Service, Catholic Charities & Community Service, Catholic Education, Evangelization, Communications, Administration & Stewardship, Respect Life, Public Service, Distinguished Catholic Youth and Friend of the Diocese.

To nominate an individual or group for a Lumen Gentium Award, or for more information, including detailed descriptions of the 10 nominating catego­ries, visit www.dioceseofprovidence.org/lumen-gentium-awards or call 401-277-2121 Option 0.