Youth Ministry Awards
About the National Awards
The National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry national awards strive to honor exceptional contributions to youth ministry, recognizing individuals and organizations that shape the vibrant youth ministry landscape in the United States.
There are eight award categories that endeavor to acknowledge dioceses, apostolate, individuals, organizations, parishes, and families. Nominations must reflect innovative approaches that embrace the mission and vision of NFCYM.
Nominees should have experience in the ministry for which they are nominated for a minimum of five years, though this is preferred but not required (except for the Saint Pier Giorgio Frassati and Saint Carlo Acutis Awards, where a minimum of two years is preferred but not required).
2026 Nomination Process
Anyone wishing to nominate a person/organization for the National Youth Ministry Award (NYMA) should complete the nomination form (see below). Two letters of recommendation must also be submitted with the form. The nomination form and two letters of recommendation must be submitted by March 31.
Letters of recommendation should clearly explain how the nominee’s ministry aligns with and supports the charisms of the award. These letters should provide specific examples of the nominee’s work, highlighting how their ministry efforts reflect and contribute to the values and mission of the award. Two examples of these letters are below.
All qualified nominations are forwarded to the National Youth Ministry Award Project Team for review. The NYMA Project Team submits the recommendations to the NFCYM Board of Directors for approval. A person who has been previously nominated may be nominated again through the completion of a new nomination form.
Exemptions:
Current members of the NFCYM Board of Directors, as well as members of the NYMA Project Team, are ineligible for the award. Staff of NFCYM are also ineligible.
Notification Process:
If selected, a letter of good standing is requested from the local Bishop of the award recipient’s diocese. Award recipients will receive written notification in mid-June and will receive the award during the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC). The 2026 NCYC will be hosted in Long Beach, CA, November 20-21, 2026.
Award Categories
The Saint Katharine Drexel Pathway Award
Saint Katharine Drexel dedicated her life and fortune to serving marginalized communities, particularly Native American and African American populations, through education and evangelization. Her charism of radical generosity and unwavering commitment to justice inspires innovative pathways that break barriers and open new opportunities for sharing the Gospel. The Saint Katharine Drexel Pathway Award reflects her pioneering spirit by recognizing diocesan initiatives that boldly create and sustain transformative ministry.
For a diocesan-level initiative that develops innovative pathways that:
- Inspires others by their efforts to support and strengthen those whom Christ leads
- Collaborates at the diocesan level to illuminate the path of Christ in ministry outreach with young people
- Advocates for a comprehensive approach to ministry with young people
- Promotes cooperative engagement with one or more diocese(s) that foster the values of the NFCYM in the above-mentioned areas
The Saint John Bosco Accompaniment Award
Saint John Bosco dedicated his life to helping young people grow in faith and character, always leading with love, patience, and encouragement. He believed in walking with youth, guiding them to Christ through friendship and support. The Saint John Bosco Accompaniment Award recognizes those who follow his example by finding new ways to support and mentor young people in their faith journey.
For an individual, apostolate, or organization working on the regional or national level that:
- Inspires others through their efforts to support and strengthen the faithful accompanying young people
- Collaborates with others at the national/regional level to illuminate the necessity of accompaniment in ministry outreach with young people
- Advocates a comprehensive approach of ministry with young people
- Promotes the necessity of encountering and following Jesus Christ
The Saint John Paul II Parish Leadership Award
Saint John Paul II was a passionate shepherd who empowered the laity to take an active role in the life of the Church, especially in guiding and mentoring young people. He encouraged parishes to be places of dynamic faith, where adults accompany youth and help them discover their unique gifts in Christ. With his call to “Be not afraid,” he inspired generations to trust in God’s plan and step boldly into their mission. The Saint John Paul II Parish Leadership Award honors those who follow his example by equipping adults to serve and support young people in their faith journey.
For a parish-level ministry leader or team that:
- Inspires parishioners to mobilize outreach beyond the doors of the Church by developing authentic welcome and promoting acompañamiento
- Collaborates with parishioners and staff to encourage efforts that support and strengthen young people in their daily encounter with Jesus Christ
- Advocates a comprehensive approach to ministry with young people
- Promotes witness through the sacramental life that connects young people to the wider Church: diocesan, national, or international encounters
The Saints Joachim and Anne Cross Award
Saints Joachim and Anne, the parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary, faithfully nurtured their family in love and devotion to God, laying the foundation for Mary’s “yes” to His plan. Their example reminds us that the home is the first school of faith, where sacrifice and joy shape the hearts of future generations. The Saints Joachim and Anne Cross Award honors family ministries that strengthen and support the domestic church, helping families grow together in faith and love.
For a family ministry or outreach initiative that:
- Supports the gifts and challenges found in the sacrifices and joys of the domestic church
- Inspires families through their efforts to support and strengthen young people as they encounter and follow Jesus Christ
- Collaborates to illuminate the gift of family life, seeking guidance from dioceses, apostolates, or church organizations
- Advocates for the domestic church by partnering with parents and equipping families
- Promotes cooperative engagement with other families that foster the mission and vision of NFCYM
The Servant of God Sister Thea Bowman Bridge Building Award
Sister Thea Bowman’s charism of bridging cultural and racial divides through joyful witness, prayer, and song exemplified her deep commitment to unity in the Body of Christ. Her life’s work—breaking down barriers of prejudice and fostering understanding across communities—continues to inspire efforts in diversity and inclusion. The Servant of God Sister Thea Bowman Bridge Building Award honors those who, like Sister Thea, create pathways of connection and inclusivity, reflecting the Gospel’s call to embrace and love all people.
For an individual, apostolate, or organization that:
- Demonstrates a sustained commitment to fostering unity and understanding among young people in the Church, actively working to bridge generational and cultural divides.
- Implements innovative programs or initiatives that engage youth in meaningful dialogue and experience that promotes diversity, inclusion, and mutual respect.
- Exhibits measurable outcomes or impact in cultivating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for young people, empowering them to become active agents of change in their communities.
The Saint Oscar Romero Service Award
Saint Oscar Romero dedicated his life to speaking out for justice and standing in solidarity with the poor and oppressed, deeply rooted in Catholic Social Teaching and a commitment to the Gospel. His courage in advocating for human dignity and social change, despite great personal risk, continues to inspire those who serve the marginalized and promote peace. The Saint Oscar Romero Service Award recognizes initiatives at the parish or diocesan level that embody his spirit of service, focusing on justice, compassion, and the transformative power of theological reflection.
For parish or diocesan initiative that:
- Leads parish or diocesan programs that engage young people in hands-on service projects, promoting Catholic Social Teaching through direct action in the community.
- Provides opportunities for youth to reflect theologically on their experience, encouraging deeper understanding of the Church’s teaching on justice, peace and solidarity.
- Cultivates an environment where young people are empowered to live out their faith through active participation in advocacy, service, and social justice efforts, making a tangible impact on their communities.
The St. Pier Giorgio Frassati Emerging Leadership Award
St. Pier Giorgio Frassati exemplified vibrant faith, joy, and a deep commitment to serving others, especially the poor, through his authentic witness of the Gospel. His passion for living out his faith through action, in humility and love, inspires young leaders to embrace Christ’s call. The St. Pier Giorgio Frassati Emerging Leadership Award honors a young adult who, like Pier Giorgio, demonstrates exceptional leadership, serving others with enthusiasm and a heart grounded in the Gospel.
For a young adult ministry leader who:
- Demonstrates a deep commitment to living out the Gospel, actively engaging in faith formation, and inspiring other young people to grow in their Catholic faith and leadership.
- Takes on significant roles in youth ministry or parish-based initiatives, leading with enthusiasm, vision, and a passion for fostering community among young Catholics.
- Fosters a culture of inclusivity and empowerment, encouraging peers to actively participate in faith-based service, leadership, and outreach initiatives that strengthen the community.
The St. Carlo Acutis Youth Award
St. Carlo Acutis used technology as a powerful tool to share the beauty of the Eucharist and spread the Gospel to a global audience, demonstrating how faith and innovation can work hand in hand. His commitment to evangelization through digital platforms continues to inspire young people and leaders to harness technology for sharing Christ’s message. The St. Carlo Acutis Youth Award honors a high school teen and their adult ministry leader who, like Carlo, collaborate creatively to use technology in service of the Gospel and the mission of the Church.
For a high school teen AND ministry leader that:
- Collaborates effectively to create and implement innovative digital evangelization strategies that engage their peers in the Gospel message through technology.
- Actively uses social media, apps, or other digital platforms to share Catholic teachings, foster community, and encourage spiritual growth among fellow high school students.
- Demonstrates creativity and initiative in using technology to reach young people and the larger parish community, creating opportunities for faith formation, prayer, and outreach in the digital space.
**It’s important to note that not all categories need to be filled in order for some of the awards to be presented every year. If there aren’t enough qualified nominees in a particular category, that category may not have an award for that year. The goal is to ensure that awards are given to deserving recipients, even if that means some categories might not be awarded in a given year.
2025 Award Recipients
To learn more about the recipient, click on their picture. To read the official press release, Click Here >
2021 Award Recipients
Other Adult Awards
Companions on the Journey Award
Highest recognition from NFCYM for a diocese to confer to adults working in youth ministry.
This award is password protected and must be purchased by a representative of your local diocese. Please contact your diocese for more information.
Light of the World Recognition
This pin is presented to adults in a parish and/or school setting as an expression of appreciation and gratitude.
