I have been very blessed to do this thing I do (working with teens and adults about faith) for a while now. I meet and see so many people who are unhappy in their work. I truly love the work I get to do and savor the privilege of being among so many awesome fun-loving people who minister and share our Catholic faith with teens today. My nephews marvel that I get paid to talk and be me. So do I.

(Slides from the presentation on Friday afternoon)

I was shocked to get a letter on May 31 of this year stating I had been selected to be a recipient of the National Youth Ministry Award in the category of trainer. I cried like a baby when I read the letter because I certainly did not think I fit the criteria. Evidently some folks did.

On Friday afternoon of the adult conference , our awards were given in the context of a prayer service. The reading for that afternoon was from Paul to the Ephesians: “Live a life worthy of the calling you have received…” Val Jansen offered a homily reflection that was animated and powerful about the Caller and the Mission; that set a wonderful tone for things to come. Both the apostle Paul and Val gave us all a wonderful challenge to continue living with excitement about this work to which we are called.

(The group of people who, were blessed to be given such a high honor that afternoon:
Tom East—National, Me–Trainer, Sr. Kieran Sawyer–Author, Joe McNesby—Athletics, Phyllis Willerscheidt—Scouting, Jerry Goebel—Justice and Peace, Rey Malave—Multicultural Gifts, Joyce Gilooly—Diocesan, Anna Scally—Artist, Pat Perillo—Regional)

The people who have been awarded this before me are like a “who’s who” in youth ministry in my eyes. It was special for many of them to be there for this presentation. I saw so many of my heroes and influences there. To be named in their company is a big deal, and like a Saturday Night Live “Wayne’s World” skit, “I’m not worthy.” Just read the names of those who have received the trainer’s award: Bob McCarty, Mike Carotta, Mike Moseley, Lynn Neu, Butch Ekstrom, and Dobie Moser. (I sometimes feel like the old children’s game: “which one doesn’t belong?”)

The reaction from the group when my name was called was humbling, touching and appreciated.

On December 1, 1978, I spoke at my first retreat in Broussard LA. I was so very nervous and was extremely grateful for it to be over.

On December 1, 2006, (twenty-eight years later) I felt privileged to stand on stage as a National Youth Ministry Award recipient.

(Yes, I am fighting back tears. )

(The wall hanging/award will be in my home office as a reminder. The quote on the award: ” I heard the Lord saying, ‘Who will go for me?’ and I answered, ‘Here am I; send me!’ ” –Isaiah 6:8)