CHARLOTTE — Who are the people making a difference in youth ministry? Every year, the Diocese of Charlotte identifies and recognizes these often unsung heroes with awards for excellence. “These awards are important because they help us see the good work that God is doing in the lives of young people and those who minister to, with and for them,” said Daniel Torres, director of youth and young adult ministry.
Bishop William G. Curlin Award
Youth leaders Angelica Leonides and Bernardo Carrillo from St. Benedict the Moor Church in Winston-Salem were given the Bishop William G. Curlin Award, which honors individuals who exemplify Christ’s love through pastoral care.
Sergio Lopez, Hispanic ministry coordinator for the Winston-Salem Vicariate, recognized their efforts to launch a youth group, CHAOS – Christ Has All Our Solutions, and their perseverance in continuing it through changes in leadership.
“Through this ministry, they have guided many young people and helped keep them away from gang involvement and other harmful influences,” Lopez said. “The Hispanic community has experienced significant growth during the years of Angelica and Bernardo’s service. I can personally attest that this growth has been made possible through their tireless dedication, selfless commitment, unwavering courage in mission, and always in faithful collaboration with their parish priest.”
St. Timothy Award
Eleanor Anderson of St. Paul the Apostle Church in Greensboro received the St. Timothy Award for a high school youth who demonstrates extraordinary public witness to their community.
“She consistently shares Christ’s love through her service at Horse Power in Summerfield, N.C., where she assists individuals with disabilities through therapeutic horsemanship,” said Jen Schultheis, coordinator of youth ministry at the parish. “She is well-known for always being ready with an encouraging word or a welcoming smile, making Christ visible to everyone she meets.”
In addition, Anderson served on the Triad Vicariate Youth Council in 2025, the Peer Ministry team at Bishop McGuinness High School in Kernersville, and in the parish’s Vacation Bible School program each summer
St. John Paul II Award
Father Kevin Tran of St. Gabriel Church in Charlotte received The St. John Paul II Award for a priest or deacon who exhibits extraordinary love, devotion, commitment and outreach to youth ministry.
“Father Tran is pure joy and a total gift to youth ministry at St. Gabriel,” said Lauren Torricelli, director of youth evangelization at the parish.
“He has supported our team in a number of ways including active participation in our Life Nights and Edge youth groups, created a mini-series on Instagram for our youth called ‘Thursday Thoughts’ where he answered questions teens submitted, and supports our retreats and summer camps,” she said. “He is the type of priest that not only shows up and gifts us with the sacraments but will get out on the dance floor during our Saturday night dance party and show teens you can be a priest and be joyful and fun!”
Bishop Michael J. Begley Award
Dayanara Cuevas Feria of St. Mary Mother of God Church in Sylva was awarded The Bishop Michael J. Begley Award for a high school student who exemplifies service, leadership and high moral standards.
“Dayanara dedicatedly serves her school and community,” said Rayanne Herrera, director of faith formation at the parish. “Even with the unexpected death of her father in 2022, Dayanara persevered in fortitude and strengthened her bond with her faith, and her family and parish family.”
She noted her active participation in Faith Formation, youth group and youth activities, as an altar server and a catechist while balancing family responsibilities that include assisting her mother with work and caring for younger siblings.
As Torres explained, “Young people are not just the Church of the future. They are the Church today. Young people are the light of Christ in their parishes and communities, and when we recognize their God-given gifts and talents, we should celebrate that.”
— Catholic News Herald