Andy and Mary Bidasio have been nominated for Catholic Extension’s 2015 Lumen Christi Award!

“Married for 72 years, Andy and Mary Bidasio, both in their 90s, have spent most of their lives volunteering in the Diocese of Tulsa, Okla. In 1983, through Catholic Charities, they helped convert two dilapidated buildings into St. Elizabeth Lodge and the Madonna House, respectively serving families in transition and women in crisis pregnancies. Then the couple was instrumental in the creation of Holy Child Assistance Shop, where donated mother and baby items are available to those in need. Though they both have encountered health challenges, Andy and Mary have each logged more than 8,000 volunteer hours with Catholic Charities. They are thankful for the opportunity to continue volunteering and feel that the Lord still has plenty of work for them to do.”

Now in its 38th year, the Lumen Christi award is presented to a woman religious, priest, lay person or group whose service spreads the light of Christ and transforms lives in their community and beyond. Both the nominating diocese AND recipient of the Lumen Christi Award will receive a $25,000 grant, for a total of $50,000 to fund their ministries.

Please vote and share with your friends.

*Voting is not the only method of becoming a finalist, but it does help.*

Click here to vote now!

After the voting is over, finalists will be announced in the first week in May, and the overall Lumen Christi honoree will be announced in the beginning of August after extensive rounds of interviews.