Extraordinary volunteers awarded by Diocese of Westminster

Image: Caritas Westminster

Source: Caritas Westminster

Caritas Westminster was pleased to host the fourth 'Love in Action' Volunteering Awards on Wednesday, 26 November, to celebrate the achievements of outstanding volunteers from across the Diocese of Westminster.

Finalists hailed from a range of parishes, schools, charities and community groups, showcasing the breadth of social action taking place within the diocese. Awards were distributed to individuals and teams of volunteers in six different categories, including parish- and school-based initiatives, charities, young people and long-serving volunteers.

Attended by finalists, supporters, partner charities and representatives of the diocese, the event began with a message and opening prayer from Bishop Paul McAleenan, Chair of Caritas Westminster, followed by a welcome from Richard Harries, Director of Caritas Westminster.

Addressing this year's finalists, Bishop Paul noted: "What you do is more volunteering: it is a sign of who you are for the sake of the Gospel. We come this evening to recognise selfless acts of generosity; that exemplify living faith, that bring God's love to life, and inspire communities."

The evening continued with a reflection by guest speaker Siobhan Garibaldi, one of last year's winners, before proceeding with the presentation of trophies and certificates, distributed by the Bishop.

This year saw the addition of the 'Charity Volunteer of the Year Award,' received by Patricia Farrell for her inspiring leadership of her parish St Vincent de Paul (SVP) group. Other categories included the Parish Social Action Award for those supporting the many liturgical, social and logistical needs of their parish, and the St Thérèse of Lisieux Award, recognising the quiet yet vital service of parishioners who are pillars of their church community.

Attendees were also inspired by the stories of younger winners, including Year 5 pupils at St Mary Magdalene's Catholic Junior School in Willesden Green and 17-year-old Anthony Njoku, who was awarded 'Young Volunteer of the Year' for his remarkable initiative in training altar servers and supporting the youth of his parish. This Ronald Palmer Award for Lifetime Achievement was given to Jacqueline Ugoala from the parish of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Holloway, in recognition of her tireless service to her parish, foodbank, local school, and over 200 foster children.

Richard Harries, Director of Caritas Westminster, said: "It is a privilege for us at Caritas Westminster and the wider diocese to come together again to celebrate the achievements of these extraordinary volunteers, who model Christ's spirit of love and service in our parishes, schools and communities… thank you to our finalists, for letting us share your story and inspiring us all to put love into action."

Meet the winners for each category here Read about all of this year's finalists at this link.