Fr. Jerry Receives Award
June 15, 2005

In 2003, Catholic Social Services established a special community service award in the name of Leonard R. Jagels, the executive director of CSSOC for many years. The award is presented annually to an individual, family, group, or business whose support of Catholic Social Services of Oakland County exemplifies their commitment to strengthening families, protecting children, and serving all in our community, regardless of race, nationality, or religious belief.

The 2005 Leonard R. Jagels Award was awarded to Fr. Jerome Brzezinski, Vicar of the Pontiac Area Vicariate and Pastor of St. John Fisher Chapel University Parish in Auburn Hills.

Fr. Jerry is being recognized with this award because:

• Through his action and example, our community recognizes the Christian values of charity, and the social justice principles of the Catholic tradition

• Through his belief in charity and justice, he strives to improve the lives of individuals, families, children and the elderly

• His support of Catholic Social Services positively impacts the quality of life in Oakland County

As pastor of St. John Fisher, Fr. Jerry has encouraged and inspired his parishioners to put their “faith into action” by volunteering their time, talent and financial support to help others in need. For example, a crew of parishioners painted and made repairs to our Hispanic Outreach building. The parish has supported our efforts by generously contributing to our Parishioner Appeal and through tithing. Fr. Jerry has helped the agency make new friends through his participation in our Spring Gala and Golf Outings.

As Vicar of the Pontiac Area Vicariate, Fr. Jerry believes that lay leadership is vital to the future of the Church and that the Vicariate can play a pivotal role in gathering people and resources to serve our community’s most needy. He has welcomed Catholic Social Service’s participation in Vicariate planning and activities

Fr. Jerry led the effort to establish the CCRT – Catholic Community Response Team – a Christian Response to the needs of the poor in Pontiac. In collaboration with Catholic Social Services of Oakland County, the CCRT responds to the immediate needs of individuals and families in crisis. Whether they've been burned out or their home or just need money for food, burial, or rent, CCRT contacts neighboring parishes and other community organizations to get them the help they need.

Fr. Jerry has helped us understand that being part of a Vicariate can make a very real difference in what we can accomplish together in the name of the Catholic Church and its care for the poor.