St. Paul parishioners Barbara Flaherty and Deb Levy were among 30 women from the diocese presented with the Saint Teresa Recognition of Charity, Compassion, and Service Award.

The awards were presented during a luncheon on November 5 with the Diocesan Council of Catholic Women along with the Columbus Catholic Women’s Conference and Daughters of Isabella.

Organizers sought to recognize “those special women who truly live their lives in the spirit of Saint Teresa; women who are strong in their Catholic faith, who are engaged and involved in their parish communities, and whose example of devotion and dedication is truly in the tradition and spirit of this holy and humble saint.” 

A letter nominating Deb Levy said:

“Deb is truly deserving of this recognition. She is incredibly humble, selfless and pious. She sees a need anywhere within the church and parish and immediately seeks a way in which to fulfill. At St. Paul, she is an excellent shepherd within various parish projects and Walking with Purpose women's Bible study. Her passion and leadership has resulted in substantially growing the program...Deb is the proud mother of 5 wonderful adult children. For all who know her, she is a beautiful saintly example to follow.”

Another St. Paul parishioner had this to say when nominating Barbara Flaherty:

“Barbara is a saint in the making. I had the honor of meeting her in my second year of Walking With Purpose. She is so spiritual, encouraging and a wonderful friend. I am blessed to know her and always happy to see her and receive a warm hug. Barbara attends Mass daily. She is a lector, Extraordinary Eucharistic Minister, RCIA sponsor and team member. She also assists with Wedding Coordination and serves as a sacristan. In 2022, she shared a letter of recommendation from Fr. PJ Brandimarti as she attended the Franciscan University of Steubenville to obtain her Master of Arts Degree in Catechetics and Evangelization. She studied online while working full time in her husband's legal office. Barbara also assists with live-streaming our masses and has volunteered for Vacation Bible School. I have enjoyed our time together at the Columbus Women's Conferences and at the Anointed Retreat at Damascus. Joyful, spiritual and faithful, Barbara is deserving of this honor. “

Please congratulate Barbara and Deb when you see them at Mass!