Catholic concern for social justice in acknowledging that everyone matters is exemplified in all four of the individuals who will receive a Citizen Recognition Award from the Missouri Catholic Conference at the MCC’s Annual Assembly to be held on Saturday, September 30,2006 at the State Capitol in Jefferson City. Each year the MCC recognizes one individual from each of Missouri’s four Catholic dioceses whose actions promote the common good. The honorees for this year are:

Mrs. Loretta Kelly of the Archdiocese of St. Louis receives the award for her dedication and zeal in serving those in need in Jefferson County. As the director of Catholic Charities Community Services-Jefferson County, she travels more than five hundred miles each week assisting individuals and families in a predominately rural area. Mrs. Kelly’s work includes ensuring home visits to the chronically ill, food and clothing drives and collaboration in other needs such as utility assistance. She is a member of Sacred Heart Church in Crystal City.

Deacon Leroy Seipel was chosen from the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph for his tireless work for justice for farmers and proper land stewardship. A retired dairy farmer, Deacon Seipel, is a member of St. Gregory Church in Maryville. Ordained as a deacon in 1976, he was appointed to the apostolate of rural life in the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph and served two terms on the Board of the National Catholic Rural Life Conference. As a member of the Board, Deacon Seipel reviewed and commented on the 1980 landmark statement of “Strangers and Guests: Toward Community in the Heartland”, that was signed by 72 Midwest bishops.

Sr. Agnes Schlereth is the honoree for the Diocese of Jefferson City. Upon her arrival at Sacred Heart Church in Columbia, she began the task of initiating a Social Concerns Committee. As a result of Sr. Schlereth’s exceptional organizational skills and upbeat “can-do” attitude there are numerous programs at Sacred Heart Church dedicated to assisting those in need. These programs include an Easter Banquet for the Poor, monthly food drives, Birthright baby showers, interfaith projects and fundraising breakfasts and dinners.

Sharon Weidelman of the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau receives the award for her dedication and concern for all stages of human life. Mrs. Weidelman does not hesitate to challenge legislators to ensure the rights of the unborn, women in crisis, the unemployed, the elderly and the dying. As a member and Director of Family Life for Immaculate Conception Church in Springfield, she provides counseling and direction for those of limited means, troubled families, abused women and pregnant women in crisis.