The diocesan Department of Evangelization and Catechesis is seeking nominations for the annual “Chick McGinty Award for Excellence in Catechetical Leadership.” The award was established in 2008 to affirm and honor an outstanding parish or school catechetical leader.

The award is named after Rosemarie “Chick” McGinty, former director of the diocesan Office of Religious Education. McGinty retired in June, 2003 after many years of dedicated service to the people of the Diocese and especially to the professional catechetical leaders.

The nomination process involves anyone nominating a parish/school catechetical leader by completing and submitting a nomination form to the Department of Evangelization and Catechesis. Criteria includes that the nominee is: a professionally formed leader (has a degree in theology or religious studies or has completed the Diocesan Certificate Program for Coordinators); currently serves in a parish/school in the Diocese; is personally committed to professional development as demonstrated by participation in formation activities such as professional days, workshops, courses; is committed to the formation of catechists, and is committed to ministering to families and forming parents. Additional criteria is that the nominee has demonstrated leadership in some area of catechesis and has made a significant contribution to catechetical ministry.

A committee will review the nominations and choose an awardee. The award is $500 and conferral of the award is Oct. 15.

Nomination forms, which have been sent to all pastors, coordinators/directors of religious education and school principals, must be returned to the Department of Evangelization and Catechesis – ECL, Diocese of Trenton, 701 Lawrenceville Rd., Trenton, N.J. 08648 by Aug. 29.

For more information, contact Doreen Gallway at 609-403-7144 or email: [email protected].