Since being established in 2015, the Bishop Paul S. Loverde Legacy Award honors a person, parish, or organization within our diocese that demonstrates an extraordinary commitment to serving the poor through its support of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington. Catholic Charities is pleased to present this year's award to the Ghana Catholic Community of the Arlington Diocese.

The Ghana Catholic Community of the Diocese of Arlington (GCC) is a vibrant community of Ghanaian Catholics who celebrate mass the Ghanaian way, led by their Spiritual Director Rev. Fr. Anthony Appiah. The church community currently worships at Queen of Apostles Catholic Church in Alexandria. The GCC is deeply committed to bringing the light and love of Christ to all our neighbors in need.

This community has been a staunch supporter of Catholic Charities' mission and ministry in numerous and significant ways. The GCC initially became involved with Catholic Charities through our Christ House Evening Meal. They have provided monthly evening meal service, volunteers, and material donations for residents, for over 14 years. At the onset of the pandemic, the GCC saw our neighbors struggle, and they answered the call for help by increasing their support to more of our ministries.

During a time of great need, the GCC gathered and donated over 17,000 pounds of food and hygiene items to our St. Lucy Food Project and supported this ministry with monetary donations. They provided financial donations, gift cards, and cleaning and household items for the mothers and children at St. Margaret of Cortona Transitional Housing ministry. The GCC hosted a bedding and towel drive, contributed financially, and provided a Giving Tree at Christmas to benefit our Migration and Refugee Services ministry. This community also purchased essential items off the Amazon wish list for young clients served through our Family Reunification ministry.

For their dedication and commitment to serving the poor, protecting the vulnerable, welcoming the newcomer, and partnering with Catholic Charities, we are honored to present the Bishop Paul S. Loverde Legacy Award to the Ghana Catholic Community of the Arlington Diocese.