Since 2014, the Diocese of St. Augustine has honored outstanding catechists through the SisterMarie Celinie Joubert Catechetical Award for Excellence in Forming the Faithful, a tradition established by Bishop Felipe Estévez and now carried forward by Bishop Erik Pohlmeier.
The award is named for Sister Marie Celinie Joubert, one of the eight original Sisters of St. Joseph who came to Florida at the invitation of Bishop Augustin Verot. Sister Joubert’s ministry reached well beyond the initial mission of educating the African American community in St. Augustine. She extended her work to early Catholic outposts in Fernandina Beach and Jacksonville’s north side, laying the foundation for faith formation across the region.
In her spirit of dedication, this award honors individuals who show exceptional commitment to forming the faithful in both parish and school settings.
Bishop Pohlmeier will host a reception to recognize this year’s honorees on Monday, March 31, at St. Matthew Parish Hall, 1773 Blanding Blvd., Jacksonville, beginning at 4:30 p.m.
This year’s recipients include:
Dr. Janet Boeckman, catechist at Our Lady Star of the Sea
Carlos Gonzalez-Chavez, theology teacher at Bishop Kenny High School
Patricia Hallé, catechist at Sacred Heart Parish, Fleming Island
Lydia Jacolucci, coordinator and catechist at St. Luke Parish
Ryan Neill, religion specialist and youth minister at St. Matthew Parish
Congratulations to this year’s award recipients!
