Every congregation has them.
They are the people who quietly make things happen: the ones setting up the parish hall before an event and tidying it afterward, arranging the altar week after week, welcoming newcomers, organizing meals, or faithfully showing up whenever help is needed.
The Hegg Awards were created to celebrate these faithful members of our congregations and to give thanks for their years of dedication, service, and witness. Open to members age 60 and over, the awards offer congregations a meaningful way to lift up and honor those whose contributions have shaped their church communities over time.
To see a list of past Hegg recipients by parish, click here.
Not everyone is comfortable being singled out or placed in a particular age category. The Hegg Awards, however, are really about gratitude: an opportunity to recognize the wisdom, faithfulness, and generosity that experienced members bring to the life of the church.
They are also a wonderful way to celebrate those entering a new season of life. Many people who have recently retired find new energy for ministry, bringing their skills, leadership, and time to their congregation in fresh ways. Someone who has begun offering their gifts in this new chapter can be a wonderful Hegg Award recipient.
In fact, one of the great strengths of many of our congregations is their intergenerational life together. Honoring faithful members reminds us that the church grows stronger when generations serve and learn alongside one another.
This year’s diocesan Hegg Awards celebration will take place on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at St. Peter’s Church in Morristown. A reception and registration begin at 3:00 p.m., followed by the ceremony at 4:00 p.m.
Each congregation may submit up to two individuals or couples to be honored. During the ceremony, recipients will receive their Hegg Award from the Bishop and will be photographed by a professional photographer as part of this joyful celebration, one of the largest diocesan gatherings of the year.
As you think about the life of your congregation, consider:
- Who quietly serves behind the scenes?
- Who has faithfully supported the church over many years?
- Who might now have more time to share their gifts with the church in a new season of life?
Someone likely came to mind as you read this.
Now is the time to celebrate them!
Click here to learn more about the Hegg Awards and submit your honorees. And be sure to mark your calendars for June 7 and plan to attend this joyful celebration with members of your congregation.
Together we will give thanks for the faithful people whose love and service continue to strengthen our churches.
