Congratulations due

Each year, JRLC honors a regular citizen for his or her work on justice issues. This year, it awards the Lawrence D. Gibson Interfaith Social Justice Award to Ellen Raeker, a member of St. William in Fridley. She's a member of an Office for Social Justice action team and is really top notch, according to Adam Robinson, OSJ's public policy coordinator.

She was obviously moved by the award. Her eyes were tearing as Rev. Chris Morton, the JRLC board chair, introduced her.

She considers her award shared with her parents, teachers and others who work for justice, she told those gathered in the capitol's rotunda. However, she said, "The people who really deserve this award are the people who struggle to keep a roof over their head."

I got to see Ellen in action March 3 at OSJ's legislative briefing at St. William. It was evident that she's passionate, smart and committed to social action and wants to inspire and guide others.

We'll be recognizing Ellen and her award in this week's Catholic Spirit. Look for it!