Congratulations to two Amazing Parishioners who have earned Special Recognition - October 4, 2026

Congratulations to two amazing parishioners who have earned special recognition, Kathi Nash, from Saint Catherine of Siena-Saint Lucy and Saint Giles Parish and, Marilyn Foster, from Ascension and Saint Edmund Parish! On Sunday, October 4, 2026, the Cardinal presented each of them with a 2026 Christifideles Award during a special ceremony at Holy Name Cathedral.


This award is bestowed upon Catholic laypeople who demonstrate the personal and ministerial renewal called by the papal exhortation, Christifideles Laici. This is a calling of the laity to the vocation and responsibility for the Church’s life. It is an understanding of the gift of mission that comes from their baptism and leads to participating in parish life.

Each awardee is a practicing Catholic who manifests an understanding of the teachings of the Church and has used her/his talents to deepen the life of the Church in their parish and/or has served in an extraordinary way in the ministry of the parish.

Congratulations to Kathi Nash! - A faith-filled woman with a heart big enough to hold all people. After consulting with a One in Love Group - a faith-sharing group for LGBTQ+ people and their families - Kathi started one in Oak Park. She has served on the Parish Pastoral Council and the Pastoral Team of the Family Mass Community as well.


Congratulations to Marilyn Foster! - She is a model of faith and a powerful advocate for social justice. Marilyn lives out the gospel call to serve those on the margins devoting time and talent to Housing Forward and as a member of the leadership team for Migrant Ministry. Marilyn and her husband, Bob, have lived in Oak Park for 40 plus years.

I am so proud of both women who were chosen for the Christifideles Award! They truly embody the spirit of the award: faithful servants whose lives reflect Christ’s love in action. They represent our parishes as part of Vicariate IV. Those who know either or both women, please be sure to congratulate them.

There are so many in our communities who embody the spirit of this award. You know who you are and I offer my gratitude and thanks for the quiet but important work and ministry we share.

With you a Christian, for you, a priest.

Father Carl Morello
Pastor
Ascension and St. Edmund Parish
St. Catherine of Siena-St. Lucy and St. Giles Parish