Bishop James Checchio, at the
conclusion of the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy, wanted to recognize
those who have been a disciple of mercy - individuals who reflect God's
mercy tirelessly and humbly, never seeking or expecting any special
praise or recognition. "The Disciple of Mercy Award" was conceived as a
way to celebrate these individuals.
The Bishop
bestowed the "Disciple of Mercy" awards on Sunday, November 20, the
Solemnity of Christ the King, and the conclusion of the Extraordinary
Jubilee of Mercy during Evening Prayer at St. Francis Cathedral.
The
criterion for the selection of those chosen as a “Disciple of Mercy”
was very specific. Each recipient had to be an active member of the
school community who is not employed by the school or Diocese; had to be
engaged in a bold, creative, effective ministry rooted in the mercy of
Jesus Christ and serving those in need who are poor and vulnerable; had
to have shown a long-term commitment to their ministry; and had to
inspire others to get involved in ministering to those who need God’s
mercy.
The following members of the Bishop Ahr community were awarded the Disciple of Mercy Award on November 20th by Bishop Checchio:
Robert
Merski – alumni parent, Advisory Board member, volunteer basketball
coach, member of the BGA recruitment team, and much more. Bob is always
available and ready to serve Bishop Ahr High School and so many others
wherever he is needed, never looking for any reward except knowing that
he has helped others. Bob Merski is a true “Disciple of Mercy” to all of
us at Bishop Ahr High School.
The Bishop Ahr
seniors who received the Disciple of Mercy Award were Kelsey Kacsmar,
Tara Genovese, Fernando Sullivan, Michael DeSantis, and Allison Schreck,
who have all dedicated innumerable hours to helping and inspiring
others at school and in the larger community. They have all emerged as a
role model for their peers, exemplifying the fearless and creative
drive that is needed to truly serve the poor and vulnerable. By living
out the spiritual and corporal works of mercy, they are able to practice
humility and service. Their intense dedication to assisting others is
fueled by a powerful, faith-filled connection with God. They have set an
example that not only motivates their peers to help others, but
encourages them to empower themselves by forging a vibrant relationship
with God. Prayer filled, committed, enthusiastic, dynamic – these are
the hallmark characteristics of their faith-filled ministries at Bishop
Ahr School and in the larger community. Kelsey, Tara, Fernando, Michael
and Allison are truly worthy recipients of the Disciple of Mercy award.
Congratulations
to all Bob, Kelsey, Tara, Michael, Fernando, and Allison! We are
blessed to have such wonderful Agents of God's Mercy in the Bishop Ahr
High School community!