During a special presentation by Grand Knight Jimmy Crocker and several Knights from Mary Star of the Sea Council 511, Parker Mokry was recognized as the Virginia Knights of Columbus’ Outstanding Young Man of the Year!

Included here is an excerpt from the letter written to Parker by the Virginia State Council Knights of Columbus’ State Deputy, Brian M. Ripple:

Although Knights of Columbus councils across the state nominated truly outstanding young men, you rose to the top because of your academic success, extracurricular activities, and community and parish involvement.

Judging this year’s competition was challenging because of the exemplary young men nominated. At the same time, being part of the judging panel gave me hope for our nation and state if you and your fellow nominees are representative of our future leaders.

As an active member of the Peninsula Cluster Youth Ministry (Christian Formation grades 6-12), Parker was made aware that the KOC Council 511 was accepting applications from high school juniors for their local Young Man, Young Woman of the Year award. The announcement that Parker was selected as Virginia’s Outstanding Young Man of the Year was an amazing surprise to Parker and his family. Parker received a standing ovation from the parishioners.

Below is an excerpt from Parker’s application:

My life’s purpose is to serve others.  As a scout, I serve others by living the Scout Oath and Law and through the Order of the Arrow.  As a Catholic, I serve others through the Corporal Works of Mercy…. I see many similarities between the work of a scout and the teachings of Jesus.

Through my Church community, I have many opportunities to serve through the liturgy of the Mass as an altar server and to the community through the Social Action Center at Saint Vincent de Paul….Parishioners of Saint Vincent de Paul Church strive to follow the example set by Saint Vincent, the “Apostle of Charity.” 

My ambition is to continue using my God-given talents in service to others not only in my church community, but also to my cycling, scouting, and my neighborhood communities. By serving others, we are…acting as the face of Jesus to others.