A charity worker and former teacher from Kilsyth has been recognised by Pope Leo for her dedication to the charity and the Catholic Church.
Cath McGrath became a volunteer for SCIAF 20 years ago, after retiring as a French and German teacher. Her dedication has now earned her the prestigious Benemerenti Medal.
She said: “When Mark Booker from SCIAF told me (I was to receive the medal) I started to cry. I didn’t feel worthy of it as I was doing something I loved.”
“Her passion for justice is motivated by her faith and she sees her volunteering as a response to God’s calling to look out for the most vulnerable.
Cath was was presented with the medal by Brian McGee (Argyll & the Isles) Bishop President of SCIAF at the SCIAF Christmas concert in St Mungo’s Church in Glasgow.
For over 20 years, has completed hundreds of school visits, raising awareness of SCIAF’s work and encouraging children and young people to respond through prayer and fundraising.
She has conducted countless talks in her parish and others, attended a number of fundraising and campaigning events and has been so generous overall.
Mark Booker said: “Cath is a lovely person with a genuine heart for serving others. Her compassion is clear to see through her actions. Never asking for reward her dedication is fully deserving of this recognition.”
Bishop Brian McGee said: “Nothing is too much for Cath and she is driven by a genuine concern and compassion.
“Her passion for justice is motivated by her faith and she sees her volunteering as a response to God’s calling to look out for the most vulnerable.
“She is very humble and the thought of any form of ‘credit’ for what she has done is something she would never ask for. We do, however, feel that the Benemerenti medal is fitting of Cath’s dedication to her exceptional service that impacts the local and global.
“Cath’s friendship is invaluable to SCIAF and the staff love it when Cath comes into the office. She has an approachable manner, is always encouraging and is a vital part of the schools’ team in particular. She is well-liked and her commitment is inspirational.”
Cath added: “Cath said: “I have always enjoyed visiting schools and speaking to the pupils ….so different from my teaching days. It’s been wonderful learning about all the projects SCIAF is involved in and then imparting this knowledge to the pupils.”
I have always felt part of the SCIAF family. Everyone treated me as part of the team. I’ve always received a warm welcome from all who work with SCIAF.”
