HOULTON, Maine — The Catholic Diocese of Portland has awarded two local students with the Timothy Award — the highest recognition from the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry.
Katherine Berube of Hodgdon and William Prescott of Houlton were among the 12 students statewide to receive this award, which a diocese may confer to a youth who lives as a disciple of Christ, setting a positive example as outlined in 1 Timothy 4:12: “Do not let anyone look down on you because you are young, but be an example for the believers in your speech, conduct, your love, faith and purity.”
Berube witnesses her Catholic Faith to her friends. There were many times when other activities were going on, but she elected not to go so she could attend either mass or parish youth ministry activities.
Berube is a confidant for her classmates. As her friends get into difficult situations, she is able to listen to them in a nonjudgmental manner and guide them in the right direction, calling upon the virtues and ideals of her faith.
She helped out in St. Mary’s Faith Formation program, showing the children that you need to learn your faith and to give back. Last year, Berube took the time to attend a weekly Catholic book study at another local family’s house. She did this on her own to grow in her personal faith and to help the other family in developing theirs. This process of making your faith your own and taking responsibility for it, was a wonderful example to others in our parish.
William Prescott of Houlton was one of two local recipients of the Timothy Award — the highest recognition from the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry.
(Contributed photo)
One of Prescott’s particular gifts to all is his quickness to forgive completely. He spends time in both personal and family prayers. He has made his faith his own. He seeks to know – through prayer, scripture, catechesis, Church documents, and living the life of the sacraments all on his own initiative.
Prescott sets the bar high for his family and friends. He is neither uncomfortable nor afraid to tackle any aspects of the faith- whether it is matters of faith or tradition. When the situation arises he is not afraid to stand by the truths of the Catholic faith and in conversation helps to guide others in the right direction. He does all this with great kindness, without putting others down and with great generosity.
