Iverson Freking Award Presented to women with ties to FSPA

January 28, 2008

In a room packed to capacity at the Radisson Center in La Crosse, three area women were honored for their dedication to fostering and promoting ecumenical endeavors on Wednesday, Jan. 23. Among the honorees were an FSPA and an FSPA affiliate: Sister Marlene Weisenbeck and affiliate Sheila Garrity. Also honored was ELCA Bishop April Larson.

In her acceptance speech, Sister Marlene Weisenbeck drew laughter and applause when she said, "Someone remarked that the awardees today represent the best of a feminine Trinity."

On a more serious note, Sister Marlene spoke on the importance of ecumenism in today's society. "While it is not always possible to share the same stage because of the boundaries of doctrine and governance in our churches—even within our own churches, I must say—this award highlights the Gospel that is proclaimed in a way that has no boundaries. There are times, I think, when God really intended that Divine Wisdom needs to be expressed in many forms of faith, so that the prism of God's goodness is given full exposure."

The Iverson Freking Ecumenical Recognition Award was created by Bethany St. Joseph Corporation to acknowledge and recognize the dedication of people to ecumenical activities and community building. The award winners are to embody one or more of the following qualities: spiritual example, respect for the faith of others, participation in a spiritual congregation and commitment to community.

To date, 52 awards over 21 years have been awarded to deserving community members. The annual honors banquet is held in January each year.