The Bishop Roger Gries Heart of a Servant award recognizes an individual or group for a specific effort or cumulative efforts over the years to broaden, enhance, educate, and connect the Catholic community of Greater Cleveland.

Thank you to those who submitted nominations for the 2026 awardee!

The First Friday Club Leadership Team selected the Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine as the 2026 BIshop Roger Gries Heart of a Servant Awardee. The award was presented as part of the Bishop’s Luncheon on Thursday, February 5, 2026. 

Sr. Judith Ann Karam, CSA, accepting the award on behalf of her order.

The Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine at “Bagels with the Bishop” event at which it was announced that they would receive the Bishop Roger Gries Heart of a Servant Award (November 2025).

Heart of a Servant Awardees

2025 Awardee, Sr. Juanita Shealey, CSJ, at the 2025 Bishop’s Luncheon.

2025 – Sr. Juanita Shealey, CSJ

2024 – John FitzGerald

2023 – Sr. Rita Mary Harwood, ND

2022 – Bishop Roger Gries