Now that I have the award, what do I do?
The presentation and recognition of the accomplishment will happen in 3 ways:
- In front of your Parish Family
- In front of your Unit Family
- At the annual Recognition Ceremony
Medals & Parent Pins in Front of your Parish Family
Each of the medals and parent pins will need to be presented at the end of Mass, typically right before the Final Blessing.
A Sample Script will be included with each package mailed and you can also download it here. You will need to get someone to read the script. It can be another leader or a parent volunteer, but it is not typically the Priest, although he may choose to.
You will need to meet with your Parish Priest well in advance to this presentation and you may find it necessary to explain the process to them as most are not familiar with the awards.
Certificates, Patches & Knot Patch in front of your Unit Family
If your award came with any of these they will need to be presented at your Unit Awards Ceremony. Please inform your unit leader well in advance of the Ceremony and present them with a copy of the Sample Script and choose only those items that are relevant to your award. Most leaders are aware that there are religious awards that our youth can earn but most are not familiar with its presentation.
Recognition Ceremony
Every year on the 1st Saturday of February the Diocese of Sacramento hosts a Recognition Ceremony to honor award recipients. Every Catholic youth that has earned their religious award will be personally recognized by the Bishop and receive a commemorative patch. An email invitation will sent to each family to the celebration and will be posted on our Facebook page.
Check the Current Calendar Dates page for the next recognition ceremony!!
We hope to see you there and Congratulations on earning your very special award!