The Diocese of Dodge City Catholic Committee On Scouting is accepting letters of nomination for adults who have provided exceptional service as an adult leader in Catholic Scouting ministry or other groups serving youth that have contributed to the spiritual development of Catholic young people. Although these awards are given by the Catholic Church, the recipients do not need to be Catholic or a registered Scout leader.

The deadline for submitting nominations is Jan. 31. All nominations, except for the St. George Emblem, may be in the form of a letter submitted to the Diocese Catholic Committee On Scouting, Diocese of Dodge City, P. O. Box 137, Dodge City, KS 67801.

The recognition and presentation of the awards will occur at the conclusion of the Diocese of Dodge City’s Scout QUEST 2005 retreat Feb. 27 at the Dodge City Community College.

The following is a summary of the adult awards that can be awarded by the Diocese of Dodge City.

1. The Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Award - This award recognizes the meritorious contributions of adults who serve youth through girls’ organizations on a parish or unit level. The applicant must have a minimum of seven years active service to youth as an adult to be considered for this award.

2. The Bronze Pelican - This award recognizes the contributions of adults who serve Boy Scouting organizations on the parish or unit level. The recipient must have demonstrated good example as a Christian and influenced boys to live a good Christian life.

3. The Saint Anne Medal - This medal honors the outstanding service of adults contributing to the spiritual development of Catholic members in the Girl Scout movement and to further, promote adult leadership in youth ministry. The applicant must have a minimum of three years active service to youth as an adult member to be considered for this award.

4. The Saint George Emblem - This emblem is the highest national recognition for adults who have made a significant contribution to the spiritual development of Catholic youth involved in Cub/Boy Scouting organizations at the diocesan level. The Diocese of Dodge City is permitted to present one emblem per year. An application for this emblem is required and can be obtained by calling Dave Geist at (620) 225-0161.

For MORE information call Dave Geist at (620) 225-0161, or email daveg@starrtech.net.