President Monson Honored for Service

Citing President Thomas S. Monson’s actions, which have “lifted the spirit and instilled self-confidence in countless people of all ages, races, and denominations,” the Catholic Community Services of Utah recently honored the Second Counselor in the First Presidency at its annual community services awards dinner.

President Monson was one of three recipients of the award; the other two honorees were the Junior League and the Assistance League, both of Salt Lake City. The Reverend Monsignor J. Terrence Fitzgerald, executive director of the services, presented a silver bowl to each of the recipients “in grateful recognition of dedicated community service.”

“I am very humbled to accept this prestigious award, and I am very much aware that my role is somewhat of a facilitator,” said President Monson upon accepting the honor. “Any distribution of humanitarian aid that I and other leaders of our church have had a hand in providing comes from members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.”

During the evening’s presentation, it was noted that as chairman of the Church’s Welfare Executive Committee, President Monson helps to oversee the dispersal of welfare funds and materials throughout the world. The Church also made major contributions to the remodeling of the Cathedral of the Madeleine in Salt Lake City, donated a chapel to the Salvation Army, gave funds to help the homeless in Salt Lake City, and gave substantial contributions to the St. Vincent de Paul Kitchen and Center. President Monson played a vital role in each of these projects.

“This community is a better community when we meet together on occasions such as this evening and when our hearts go out to those who truly need our help,” observed President Monson, who was visibly moved at the recognition.

“We remember the words of the Stranger of Galilee, even the Savior, who said, ‘Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me’” (Matt. 25:40), he concluded.

President Monson shakes hands with the Reverend Monsignor J. Terrence Fitzgerald.