Four honored for their work with Catholic Charities of archdiocese

By Dan Russo
Witness Editor

EPWORTH — Four individuals who work for or with Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Dubuque are being recognized for their contributions to the community.

Deacon Bill Hickson, director of Catholic Charities’ Jail and Prison Ministry, was recognized by Divine Word College in Epworth along with Deacons Bill Biver and Tom Lang, two other key figures in the ministry. Caleb Gates, a case manager for Catholic Charities’ Refugee Resettlement Program, is being honored by Linn County Public Health.

The three deacons received the “Matthew 25 Award,” given annually to people for “serving the least among us” as Christ asks us to do in the 25th Chapter of Matthew where Jesus discusses the corporal works of mercy.

The 2017 event marked the first time the award was given to a group rather than an individual. The ceremonies occurred March 22. After Vespers in the Divine Word chapel, there was a banquet and presentation by Divine Word President Father Timothy Lenchak, SVD. More on this event will be in the April 2 issue of The Witness.

Gates, based in Cedar Rapids, will be receiving the “Community Partner Award” from Linn County Public Health on April 6. The award is for “dedication in supporting the public health mission, which is to build a healthier Linn County,” according to a description from the Linn County Health Department.

Gates is being honored for his work helping refugee families. The presentation of the award will occur at a celebration of the 50th anniversary of Linn County Public Health between 1-4:30 p.m. at the IBEW Hall Local #405 in Cedar Rapids. The event is open to the public.

Attendees are asked to RSVP by March 31 by calling 319-892-6000.

Hickson and Gates are pictured.