The following parishioners earned the Pope Pius XII Religious Emblem:
Thomas DeRito, Silas Fischer, J.P. Labadia, Michael Lisitano, Max Sznaj and Nick Zoccoli.
They each attended a three hour session every Sunday afternoon for six months at St. Paul's Church. There were numerous written requirements each week, a service project, and dialog concerning their Catholic faith. It is post-Confirmation work. Of greatest importance, it is a award they all volunteered to work on. It is not required for any Rank advancements. Of the thousands of Scouts in the State of Connecticut, we average only 3 boys earning this high honor each year. Last year, only one Scout earned this award in the State, we are so proud to have six. Each Scout also attended our 5 pm Mass at St. Paul's after their instruction was finished on Sunday afternoon.
I would also like to acknowledge Cub Scout Evan Roccapriore of Pack 41 who was the only Cub to earn his Light of Christ award this year.
All of the young men mentioned above will be presented their awards at St. Joseph's Cathedral, Hartford on May 15th at 2 pm, during a special ceremony recognizing their accomplishments.
As their Religious Awards Counselor, I can attest to the hard work and dedication which each Scout displayed in earning this award.