At the 40th annual Pius X Awards dinner, May 20, Wendy Scherbart, Director of Catechetical Ministry, and Lupita Vital, Director of the Hispanic Apostolate, introduced the awards presentations.
They thanked the catechists present and all attendees for their efforts and support of catechetical ministry in parishes throughout the Diocese of San Jose.
Some 63 catechists (see list, page 13) were honored for 10 to 45 years of religious education ministry. Catechetical Advisory Board members read the names of 10-year awardees who received certificates from Bishop Patrick J. McGrath.
Scherbart announced the names of honorees with 25 and more years of service while the bishop presented them with plaques.
Bishop McGrath conveyed his support for the work of the catechists. “I am proud of the gift of your ministry,” he said, “and for all that you do in your parishes and in the diocese.
“You have given your love and dedication to the Church and I thank you all for sharing Christ in all that you do. You show that. Thank you for saying ‘yes.’”
He noted their dedication and

length of service and said, “Our diocese is truly blessed in all of you, in word and deed, and how you live your lives. You have blessed the lives of so many people.”
The Pius X Award is named in honor of St. Pius X, 1835-1914, who, as pope, encouraged daily reading of the Bible, directed liturgical renewal, and encouraged Catholics, especially in Italy, to become involved in political issues in order to achieve peace and order.
St. Pope Pius X is perhaps best known for encouraging Catholics to receive the Eucharist frequently and he directed that children who had reached the age of reason be allowed to receive the Eucharist. His feast day is August 21.
Three retiring catechetical leaders were also honored: Sister Miriam Fahey, SNJM of St. Maria Goretti Parish, who has worked for many years at the Santee Mission; Jeanne Gaffney of St. Catherine of Alexandria; and Sharron Hollenbeck of St. Victor Parish.
Anne Grycz, retiring Director of the Institute for Leadership in Ministry, was also honored for her years of service which began as a catechist.