One of the three ways that a Paul Harris Fellowship may be awarded is for the parent club to use its Foundation contribution points to nominate a particular member of its own club or the community at large. At our 24 October 2024, Celebration of Community Service at the Lighthouse Theatre in Port Dover, the RCNS took the opportunity to recognize two people connected with our Club, each of whom have distinguished themselves in exactly the light that Paul Harris had envisaged. As introduced by Father Augustine Ogundele, we celebrated Deacon Gerard VanSchyndel who has contributed so much to the local community through his efforts with the St Vincent de Paul and Knights of Columbus groups. In his remarks, Deacon Gerald noted that "there is no "I" in team and that he was grateful that there was a 'U' in volunteer - this made his small part both enjoyable and effective.
By going to the 'Read more ...' tab, you can read more detail in respect of the contributions Gerard has made to his community. We are so happy to recognize such a selfless & generous leader as he is - Deacon Gerard exemplifies the RI credo of 'Service above Self'.
Citation for Deacon Gerard Van Schydel;
Deacon Gerard Van Schyndel has served the community through the Knight’s of Columbus council in Simcoe and in particular with the Saint Vincent de Paul Community Kitchen as Co-ordinator since 2013. During the Pandemic, Gerard created a system to feed over 100 people daily, offering a hot meal and companionship.
Gerard was ordained a Permanent Deacon for the Diocese of London in 2015 and has been active in ministry at the Catholic Family of Parishes in Norfolk ever since while also continuing his volunteer ministry with the Community Kitchen.
Gerard has been involved with the Norfolk Refugee Committee since 2015, which has welcomed and successfully integrated four Syrian families into the Norfolk area. He is continuing this work by supporting those who are assisting the recent Ukrainian refugees coming into our area.
