Father Pedro Opeka received on October 29th 2015 in New York at the University’s premier gala,

the highest award conferred by the St. John’s University

entitled “Spirit of Service Award”

at the 18th Annual President’s Dinner.

This prize is awarded to outstanding individuals whose vision, accomplishments and good works embody the essence of the St. Vincent de Paul and reflect the vision of the University.
In his mind, St. John University is committed to fostering the qualities required to anticipate and respond to education, ethical and cultural needs, social and professional needs as well as religious needs of growing cities in a dynamic world.

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Currently, twenty-five thousand people live in the villages of Akamasoa and are the direct responsibility of the association. 14,000 children are enrolled in school four thousand men and women find work. More than 4,000 homes were also built by the association. And it helps addition to seven hundred elderly without resources.

This award will strengthen the recognition of the work undertaken by the Catholic Religious of Slovenian origin. It has already received the 2011 Honor Award from the Kiwanis association of Austria, Cardinal Van Thuan prize in 2008 “Solidarity and Development”, the “Legion of Honor” in France and many others during these 25 last years.

America wakes up, the United States finally become aware of the existence of Father Pedro Opeka, from his example.
It’s time to start sharing what we have.