During the 2013 NCCL meeting in Cleveland I received the 2013 F. Sadlier Dinger Award. I received the award as part of the Sadlier dinner.

Each year the William H. Sadlier publishing company puts on a dinner for those attending NCCL’s annual meeting. The award is give following the awardee’s introduction by the cadre of past presidents lead by Carol. The introduction is as much a roast as an introduction.

The award was established in 1980 to honor a person who has made significant contributions to Catholic Education is named for Sadlier’s former chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board in recognition of his lifelong dedication to the Catholic Church and to Catholic Education.

In presenting the award William Sadlier Dinger, President, said, “The award is given to Don in recognition of outstanding wisdom, vision and leadership serving the ministry Of Catechesis.”

I was surprised when Bill Sadlier Dinger called me. He opened the conversation asking me if I could think of anyone who they might give the F. Sadlier Dinger award to. Being caught off guard with the question I said I would have to think about it for a while. To which Bill responde, “We were thinking Don Kurre would be a great choice.”

After catching my breath I said, “Bill I would be honored to accept the award.”

The National Conference for Catechetical Leadership (NCCL) and Sadlier, as we call them, continue to be an integral part of my ministry. The friendships I’ve developed and support I’ve experienced helped me become the parson I am today. I must admit that I enjoy the notoriety. But, I haven’t walked this journey alone. Thank you!