PROVIDENCE — More than 80 awards were given to both youth and adult volunteers who were honored at this year’s diocesan Catholic Youth Ministry and Scout Awards at the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul on Sunday, March 11. Many filled the cathedral to celebrate their individual and group efforts. Bishop Thomas J. Tobin presided over the Mass and awards ceremony, congratulating and encouraging the faithful to always show charity and compassion to all those they encounter.
“We are very, very proud of all of you, each and every one of you,” he shared. “You’ve worked hard to receive this recognition. As we recognize you today, we pray that you will continue to do great things in the Church and in our community in the days to come.”
The Bishop also extended his gratitude to the adult leaders who have shared their generosity, time, talent and example with the young people.
“Thank you so much for sharing your time and talent and most of all for sharing your faith. It is a precious gift you give to our young people. Thank you and God bless you for your work.”
In his homily, Bishop Tobin encouraged those in attendance, particularly the youth, to always try to break through the isolation of technology and to continue to offer charity and compassion to family, community and people around the world that they may never meet.
“The great gift of our Catholic faith, the key that unlocks your future, and the foundation which you build your life is Jesus, the Church and charity — three important values of our Catholic faith. That is our ultimate vocation, to have eternal life in Christ. May everything we do in our lives and in our faith lead us to that goal.”
