Roman Catholic Diocese Honors Smithfield Couple

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Providence honored Donald and Patricia Turbitt, parishioners of St. Philip’s, Smithfield,  for their service to the Church and community at a dinner to benefit Emmanuel House, a diocesan ministry that provides critical services to the homeless on Thursday, May 16 at the Providence Marriott.

Donald and Patricia have preached and taught the Catholic faith around the diocese for more than 40 years.  The couple travel as missionaries to several countries to spread the Gospel message. They are both involved in other church activities, Donald is the founder and international director of Men of St. Joseph, a men’s ministry that meet for prayer and discussion.  Patricia is involved in Magnificant, a women’s ministry that meet regularly for prayer and fellowship.

      The Lumen Gentium Award formally recognizes those who ‘toil in the vineyard’ in service to the Lord and minister to those in the greatest of need in their parish or community.

      “The Catholic Church in Rhode Island is blessed with many who carry out the work of the Church throughout the Diocese,” said Bishop Thomas J. Tobin.  “The nominees and those selected for a Lumen Gentium award, through their selfless efforts, represent outstanding examples of Christian service here in Rhode Island.  This award provides a unique opportunity to recognize those who work tirelessly in service to the Church and ask for nothing in return.”

A total of 167 nominations were accepted from January through March of this year in 10 categories for consideration of the first-ever Lumen Gentium Awards in the Diocese. Groups, organizations and individuals whose work is consistent with the teachings and mission of the Catholic Church were eligible for an award.

 A committee of clergy and laity, chaired by Msgr. Albert Kenney, reviewed each nomination then submitted recommendations to the Bishop. The committee assessed each nomination on criteria such as personal dedication and service to their local parish communities, those who demonstrate a commitment in the Church or broader community related to the mission of Catholic Charities or community service, member of the Church who has demonstrated a sincere commitment to promoting and defending the sanctity of human life by word and deed, by personal example and public witness and other factors depending upon category.