The Diocese of Norwich is now accepting nominations for the Norwich Diocesan Our Lady, Queen of Hope Award, a new honor created to recognize a woman whose faith, leadership, and service have made a lasting impact on the life of the Church.
The award will be presented by Bishop Richard F. Reidy and is named in honor of Our Lady, Queen of Hope, our Blessed Mother, who serves as the perfect model of faith, trust, and humble leadership. Through her “yes” to God, Mary teaches us what it means to lead with courage, compassion, and hope—virtues that this award seeks to recognize in the women of our diocese.
This diocesan award is intended to honor a woman of faith who has demonstrated vision and leadership within her parish or at the diocesan level. Nominees should be women who live out Catholic values with authenticity, display strong spiritual leadership, and serve the Church with a generous spirit of love and dedication. They are women who quietly—and sometimes boldly—move communities forward through prayerful discernment, initiative, and a willingness to serve where they are most needed.
Ideal nominees are women who have:
Displayed a strong and visible faith
Shown a deep commitment to living out Catholic values
Exercised spiritual leadership locally or across the diocese
Demonstrated love and service to the Catholic Church
Contributed to successful initiatives that benefit the Church
Helped move their parish community forward through vision and leadership
The recipient of the Our Lady, Queen of Hope Award will receive a commemorative award, along with a $200 donation made in her name to the Catholic charity, parish, or diocesan ministry of her choice—further extending the reach of her service and generosity.
The award winner will be selected by the Women’s Conference Committee. Completed nomination forms must be submitted in full by January 29, 2026.
Those wishing to nominate a deserving woman are encouraged to prayerfully consider the many faithful leaders who enrich parish life, strengthen ministries, and witness to Christ through their everyday acts of service. The nomination form is available for download and printing by clicking on the link below.
For questions or additional information, please contact the Evangelization and Discipleship Ministry at 860-848-2237, ext. 203, or by email at ahoisl@norwichdiocese.net.
In honoring women who lead with faith and hope, the Diocese of Norwich looks to Mary—our mother and our model—who reminds us that true leadership is rooted in love, humility, and trust in God.
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