Msgr. Leo McCarthy (left), Father Mark Wolski

Christ the King Seminary will host its annual Curé of Ars awards dinner on Thursday, Oct. 5, at The Atrium @ Rich's in Buffalo. This year's event will honor Msgr. Leo F. McCarthy and Father Mark J. Wolski.

Father McCarthy is being honored for his leadership as pastor of several parishes in the Diocese of Buffalo, and his influence as a vocation counselor at local schools. His extensive work in promoting vocations to youth as an educator, coach and mentor has impacted the lives of many within our community.

Father Wolski is being recognized for his active roles as pastor, chaplain and administrator across the Diocese of Buffalo. His impact on education through his leadership at SS. Peter & Paul Church and School in Hamburg, and his compassion for others while ministering at Children's Hospital, are just a few of his many influential works during his lifetime.

The program begins with cocktails at 6 p.m., followed by dinner and an awards ceremony at 7 p.m. Susan Santandreu, community volunteer and long-time supporter of the seminary, is this year's chair. Maid of the Mist is sponsoring the event.

The Curé of Ars Award, established by Christ the King Seminary's board of trustees in 1985, honors individuals whose lives reflect the qualities of Christian dedication and service that marked the life of St. John Vianney. St. John Vianney was a parish priest of Ars, France, who in 1929 was named by Pope Pius XI as the patron of parish priests − that they might emulate the compassion and self-giving of this simple man.

This award is presented annually to persons and organizations whose qualities include a particular attention to healing those in need of God's reconciling love, a willingness to contribute their gifts towards pastoral care, especially for the needy and poor, and a commitment to the Church as a primary instrument for the divine-human encounter.

For more information on tickets or sponsorship opportunities for the Curé of Ars Awards Dinner, visit www.curedinner.com or contact Laura DeMizio, coordinator of special events, at 716-847-8373.