Sisters Receive the St. Joan of Arc Award August 8, 2024

Angelo Digangi, Commissioner of the Humanitarian Council of the Bishop Catanello Memorial Commission Organization (BCMCO) visited the Sisters of St. Dominic of Amityville, NY, Thursday August 8th, accompanied by fellow members.

The Sisters were named the inaugural recipients of the St. Joan of Arc award by the BCMCO, in appreciation of their fostering the development of Catholic values in society. The 2024 St. Joan of Arc award was presented on the Feast Day of St. Dominic, at the Motherhouse in Amityville. Accepting the award was Prioress, S. Peggy McVetty, OP.

The BCMCO is named in memory of the Most Rev. Ignatius A. Catanello, D.D., Ph.D. The organization’s mission is to share stories about Father “Iggy” and to help keep his idea of H.O.P.E. (Helping Other People Excel) alive.

Father Ron Henery, OP celebrated Mass prior to the lunch and award presentation. BCMCO member, Diana Paunetto, shared her beautiful voice with an a capella rendition of Ave Maria during communion.

“The Sisters have ministered in the tri-state area, Puerto Rico and El Salvador or more than 170 years. Their commitment to preaching, education, alleviating poverty, increasing literacy, the environment, immigration and peace and justice represents a life of faith and service. The St. Joan of Arc Award is a worthy tribute in honor of them for their selfless and tireless work to God and to the thousands of individuals whose lives they have touched,” said Mary Fuchs, Director of Advancement.