Utah Knights of Columbus 2020-2021 Award Winners

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The Utah Knights of Columbus held their 2021 state convention online this year because of the coronavirus pandemic. In addition to presenting the awards, the Knights announced donations to the diocese:  To Vocations: $4,564; to Culture of Life: $2,046.

During the May 1 event, the traditional awards were presented.

Family Award: Gifts of the Magi Angel Tree program from Council 6010 at St. Rose of Lima Parish, Grand Knight Dennis Martinez

This project directly benefited approximately 59 youth in need for gifts for Christmas and provided food for 20 families to have a Christmas dinner. Parishioners supported this campaign and the Council of Catholic Women of the parish assisted the Knights with this project.

Community Award: Council 5214 at St. Francis Xavier Parish; Grand Knight George Jockisch

The Knights’ program helps the school financially at events such as the annual auction and also by providing winter clothing for students in need, reading to students, and organizing a Thanksgiving Basket program.

Life Award: Council 9849 at St. James the Just Parish, Grand Knight Mike Sweetland

The Utah Knights of Columbus undertook an Ultrasound Initiative to purchase an ultrasound machine for Pro-Life Utah. Council 9849 raised $7,652, or 49 percent, of the goal for the entire state. The Pro-Life Utah van and ultrasound machine will need drivers, trained technicians and regular maintenance, so Council 9849 plans to make this an annual project.

Faith Award: Council 9849 at St. James the Just Parish, Grand Knight Mike Sweetland

Knights from Council 9849 are heavily involved in the parish’s faith formation efforts. Three of the four RCIA instructors are Knights, as is the instructor of the Confirmation One class.

Knight of the Year: John Valdez, Council 9849 at St. James the Just Parish

Family of the Year: Rafael and Laura Castillo and children Mario, Anna Laura, Rafael and Miguel; Bishop Hunt Council 5214 at St. Francis Xavier Parish

Chaplain of the Year: Fr. John S. Evans, pastor of St. Thomas More Parish

Scholarships: The following scholarships were awarded based on criteria that included grades and service to the community and Church.

Dan Higgins Memorial Scholarship: Elisabeth Marie Penderghast, Juan Diego Catholic High School

Utah Knights of Columbus Endowment Scholarshi: Jadelyn Flores, Seton Home Study School