Do you know an older adult who is the definition of living a life of faith and hope well into their older years? Nominations are now being accepted for the Class of 2023 of the Society of St. Simeon and St. Anna.
Created in 1995, the diocese honors the wisdom, experience, maturity, and achievements of older persons in the Diocese of Southern Ohio through induction into the Society of St. Simeon and St. Anna. Individuals can be nominated by any member or congregation in the diocese. Those chosen will be inducted into the Society at a celebratory Eucharist and luncheon at the Procter Center on Wednesday, May 17 at 11 a.m.
The induction ceremonies for the Society over the last three years were greatly curtailed due to the Covid pandemic. New members in 2020 and 2021 were inducted via Zoom. Nominations for 2022 were put on hold following the death of one of the main organizers of the event, the Rev. Margaret Sammons, as well as turnover on the diocesan staff. The Rev. Jason Prati, rector of All Saints, New Albany, has agreed to act as liaison to the Society. He will be assisted by Julie Murray, Canon for Communication and Community Engagement for the diocese.
During the hiatus, Prati and Murray gathered some current members of the Society to discuss plans for moving forward. The members came up with some changes to the nominating process, enhancements for the induction ceremony, and possible programming and events that the Society could offer. They will work to roll out these new offerings beginning in 2024. Changes to the nomination process have already taken effect – the minimum age for nomination is now 65 and older, and people are also asked to nominate individuals rather than married couples. Along with the new members of the Class of 2023, members of the Classes of 2020 and 2021 will also be recognized at this year’s event to make up for their abbreviated ceremonies.
More information about the Society, criteria for nomination and the nominating form can be found here. Registration for the induction ceremony and luncheon is coming soon.
