Carol Jean Rowell, a parishioner of St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Orange Park, was named the Respect Life Volunteer of the Year for the Diocese of St. Augustine. The honor was announced at the Florida Respect Life Conference that was held in Orlando, Oct. 14-15.

Carol has been volunteering in Respect Life Ministry for the past 8 years. Among other volunteer engagements, she is also the spiritual advisor to the St. Vincent de Paul Society at her parish. Through the generous gift of her time to the parish and a variety of ministries, she lives out a holistic approach to revering the dignity of all human life.

“Carol exudes joy from her heart and spreads this joy to everyone she encounters. She has been volunteering with the Diocesan Respect Life Office for four years and always brings a bundle of laughter with her when she arrives,” said Mary Catherine Damon, coordinator of the office. “This year Carol assisted us with calling each parish to remind them of the Respect Life collection and provide them with any additional materials they might need. Her joyful spirit not only helped us build stronger relationships with parish staff but also assisted with raising the most funds we have ever raised before,” Damon added.

She is also serving as the Jacksonville 40 Days for Life Vigil coordinator and has increased the number of committed participants and parishes.

We are so grateful for the gift of Carol Jean and for the gift of all of our volunteers. Thank you for increasing a culture of life, one heart at a time!

Last weekend more than 20 faithful pro-life volunteers from the Diocese of St. Augustine attended the Florida Respect Life Conference in Orlando. Part of the group is pictured with Bishop Felipe Estévez.