Two students received the Archbishop’s Medal of Honor for the Jubilee Year of Hope Award, one of which was our own Fallston High School senior, Olivia Rotella and another student, Tucker DeVack, who is a fellow attendee of St. Mark Church.
The purpose of the Archdiocesan Medal of Honor Jubilee of Hope is to recognize Catholic figures who have been remarkable witnesses of God throughout their lives. The significance of this award is incredibly profound; no other member of the Catholic youth will receive a Jubilee Year of Hope award for 25 years – per Catholic tradition.
Each year is different, and the last time it was celebrated was the Jubilee ‘Year of Mercy’ while this year’s selection was in representation of hope. “No matter how young or how old, we are called to be an example to people of what it is like to live a life for God,” Olivia said. “This significance is just huge, and I am still awestruck by it.”
This award is one of irrefutable importance, granting great honor to those who can be virtuous and deserving enough to receive it. “Being recognized for such an honor is indescribable,” Olivia explained gratefully. “I remember being at work when I got the notification that I was awarded, I started to cry tears of joy.”
There are not requirements for this award; the only principle is being a follower of Christ. Olivia is devoted, showing her kindness, generosity, and thorough graciousness to God. “I believe many of my peers could have been recognized for this award,” she humbly noted. “I know many faith-filled teens who live out their lives in very similar ways to me.”
Olivia commits much of her life to charity, from donating her chance for Christmas gifts to the less fortunate, cutting off lengths of her hair for cancer patients, cooking for Our Daily Bread, participating as a peer minister, and working as a leader for FCA. Her gratitude for God’s influence in her life has pushed her forward through many of her darker times, leading her to a path she finds far more fit and comfortable for herself.
There were eleven individuals awarded the Medal of Honor, one of which was Olivia. With 6 categories, Liturgy & Evangelization, Evangelization, Education, Service, Catholic Ministry, and Stewardship, Olivia was nominated for a special award: The Jubilee Year of Hope. This reward makes every individual’s journey feel “recognized” and appreciated for their commitment to their faith.
Through FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes), Olivia has worked with fellow leaders, like Luca Cangelosi, to form FCA Bible studies and create a branch of religion practice for those who were curious in joining in on prayers. “I welcome and invite everyone to come to FCA to learn about God and to begin to pray,” Olivia said.
Congratulations, Olivia Rotella, for receiving this consequential award! “We are all here to make a difference in each other’s lives, whether Christian or not,” said Olivia. “All it takes is courage and strength to do the right thing.”
