Honoring Faith and Leadership: The Meaning Behind the “Family of Nazareth” Award
photos courtesy of OLMC
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, In the heart of the Catholic community in Northern New Jersey, few honors carry as much weight and spiritual significance as the Family of Nazareth Award. Presented annually by the Redemptoris Mater Archdiocesan Missionary Seminary of Newark, this award recognizes those who have dedicated their lives to the “New Evangelization” and the support of the priesthood.
Whether you are a parishioner in the Archdiocese of Newark or a supporter of local religious institutions, understanding the impact of this honor offers a glimpse into the dedicated leadership shaping our community today.
What is the Family of Nazareth Award?
While the name “Nazareth” is common among Catholic schools and charities, this specific award is the premier regional honor associated with the Redemptoris Mater Seminary in Kearny, NJ. It is the highlight of the seminary’s annual gala, celebrating individuals who model their lives after the virtues of the Holy Family—Jesus, Mary, and Joseph.
Key Criteria for Honorees:
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Missionary Support: A deep commitment to forming and supporting the next generation of missionary priests who will serve globally.
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Decades of Service: Recognition of clergy or lay leaders who have provided consistent, exceptional leadership within their parishes for twenty, thirty, or even forty years.
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The “Hidden” Virtues: Named for the quiet, faithful life of the Holy Family in Nazareth, the award highlights those who work tirelessly, often behind the scenes, for the betterment of the Church.
2026 Spotlight: Rev. Msgr. Ronald J. Rozniak
This year, the Archdiocese celebrated a local pillar of faith: Rev. Msgr. Ronald J. Rozniak.
As the longtime pastor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Ridgewood, NJ, Msgr. Rozniak has been a driving force in local ministry for decades. His selection for the 2026 Family of Nazareth Award honors his 35 years of dedicated service on the Seminary’s Pastoral Council. His influence has been instrumental in the growth of the seminary and the spiritual life of Bergen County.
Distinguishing “Nazareth” Honors
Because the name is so central to the faith, it is easy to confuse this award with others. Here are a few notable distinctions:
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Nazareth Academy Legacy Award (Philadelphia): Honors the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth for their historic contributions to education.
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Nazareth Family Grants (Rochester, NY): A financial award from Nazareth University given to families with multiple students enrolled at the same time.
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