Local Girl Scouts honored
In addition to its mission of helping young girls grow into women of courage, confidence and character, the Girl Scouts encourage girls to embrace their faiths and work with organizations associated with their religions to provide appropriate recognition programs.

Ten girl members of the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore from Plumsted recently completed programs and received religious awards from the Catholic Diocese of Trenton and the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry.

Patty Kiernan, an independent Girl Scout, received the Holy Family Award, which recognizes a Brownie Girl Scout in second or third grade who participates in a spiritual program.

Jacquelyn Lawrence, Troop 582, was given the Marian Medal. The medal is part of a national religious recognition program that includes Girl Scouts between the ages of 12 and 15.

The I Live My Faith Award was presented

to Lauren Harper, Troop 82; Casey Hendrickson, Troop 603; Emily Hendrickson,

Troop 603; Kayla Jacobus, Troop 399; Vicki Kiernan, an independent Girl Scout; Kiyomi Locker, Troop 603; Lauren Suess, Troop 603; and Natalie Suess, Troop 603. The award is given to girls between the ages of 9 and 11 who complete a program that helps them appreciate the role religion plays in their life.

Each award recipient was honored on Feb. 9 during a special Mass in the Church of the Assumption, New Egypt.

In addition, Bishop John Smith of the Diocese of Trenton will present the I Live My Faith Award and the Marian Medal to each recipient during a Court of Honors to be held March 8 in St. Mary's Cathedral, Trenton, at 2 p.m.

The Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore provide opportunities for girls to participate in religious award and recognition programs for all faiths.