Honorees Include Retired Assistant Principal, Mrs. Virginia Blenke

(Photo caption: Mrs. Virginia Blenke is pictured with Principal, Robert Hernandez and Pastor, Fr. Victor Amorose at St. John Vianney Catholic School.)

The St. John Vianney Catholic School community will have something to celebrate this Sunday, as one of their own is presented with the prestigious St. Jude the Apostle Medal. Mrs. Virginia Blenke taught at St. John Vianney for 26 years until her retirement this May.

St. John Vianney staff, students and families have been facing many challenges since September 26^th when Hurricane Helene brought historic flooding to our area. All school buildings on the property were flooded, windows were shattered and most of the contents inside were ruined.

Father Victor Amorose, pastor of St. John Vianney Catholic Church, nominated Mrs. Blenke for the award. In the nomination letter, he stated, “Virginia is a faith-filled woman who has been a constant source of quiet strength and support to our school community.”

Mrs. Blenke served as the assistant principal for many years, and on one occasion as the interim principal. She took pride in teaching her son and daughter at St. John Vianney, as well as hundreds of other students over the years.

The media are invited to preview and/or cover the Catholic Diocese of St. Petersburg’s St. Jude Medal Awards Ceremony and Prayer Service. Please confirm your attendance in advance. For more information, contact Teresa Peterson, 407-432-1974

What: 25^th Annual St. Jude Medal Award Ceremony and Prayer Service
When: Sunday, October 27, 2024, 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Where: Cathedral of St. Jude the Apostle, 5815 5th Avenue North, St. Petersburg
Why: Honor and thank parishioners for distinguished and outstanding service to their church, school or community.

Additional Background:

The St. Jude the Apostle Medal acknowledges the great gift of the Church, its people, exemplified in individuals who in their generosity and love of their faith have greatly contributed to Courageously Living the Gospel.

The honorees come from all walks of life and serve in various ministries such as food pantries, financial assistance programs, outreach to the sick and homebound and many other volunteer positions at local churches and schools. 

• Live video stream of the ceremony can be viewed at dosp.org/livestream
• To view list of all honorees, click here.

For more information, contact Teresa Peterson tlp@dosp.org.