The inaugural St. Michael Award is honouring six Catholics in the Archdiocese of Toronto for years of distinguished and faithful service in their parishes and to the Church.

Announced Sept. 19, Dan and Ann Fellin, Americo de Sousa, Melanie Nazareth and Larry and Theresa Keogh have been recognized for putting the Gospel into action.

“What a joy it is to honour these men and women who have so lovingly served our community with great joy, humility and fidelity over so many years,” said Archbishop Francis Leo. “Inspired by their faith, they are a profound witness of the Gospel in action and reflect the face of Jesus in giving so generously of themselves to others.”

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The Fellins have been parishioners at St. Bonaventure’s Parish in Don Mills since the late 1960s. Dan is a long-time Knights of Columbus member, as Ann is with the Catholic Women’s League. The Fellins have long helped parish efforts to serve the homeless and those most in need.

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De Sousa has faithfully served Our Lady of the Rosary Parish in Scarborough since it was founded 37 years ago, and even into his 90s dedicates countless hours to serve the Church.

Nazareth since 2003 has been a member of the CWL at St. Joseph’s Parish in Mississauga where she has been involved in efforts to help the needy at home and abroad.

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The Keoghs, of St. Paul the Apostle Parish in Alliston, have been married 68 years. For 50 years Theresa was organist at the parish while Larry has been a lector, extraordinary minister of Holy Communion and served on a number of parish councils.

St. Michael is the Archdiocese of Toronto’s patron saint. The recipients will be honoured at a special celebration at the noon Mass at St. Michael’s Cathedral Basilica Sept. 29.