“Last February, Mercy Care lost a dear friend and its founding board president, Dr. Paul J. Reiss. Dr. Reiss and his wife, Rosemary, were also Mercy Care Friendship Volunteers,” Johnston said.

Reiss is the author of the booklet, “It is about Love and Mercy,” a history of Mercy Care for the Adirondacks established in 2007. The booklet describes the changing place of elders in family, in community, and the resulting need for a new kinship network to help elders age in place more successfully. Reiss served as president of Saint Michael’s College and Executive Vice President of Fordham University, among other academic positions.

The Paul J. Reiss Love and Mercy Award recognizes those individuals or organizations that act upon an understanding that all members of our community are our neighbors, especially those in most need of our love, friendship and companionship. The Mercy Care Board established the criteria for the award: A person who practices love in action–extending mercy to those in need, whenever possible. A person who facilitates healing, compassion, and joy through mercy and friendship. A person who builds community where it is scarce. A person who respects and supports every person’s self-worth, undiminished in value or dignity by age or infirmity. A person who practices love in action–a standard that endures over time.

In presenting the award, a crystal replica of Catherine McCauley, the foundress of the Sisters of Mercy, Johnston quoted Paul J. Reiss in “Love and Mercy” — “Let us remember that Mercy is not just feeling love of God and love of neighbor, mercy is love in action. Mercy Care is the loving care given to others in kindness and in a manner that is both compassionate and just.”

Johnston read a note from Bishop Terry LaValley, who regretted he had another commitment and could not attend. Bishop LaValley wrote, “I can’t think of an individual more deserving than Father John Yonkovig to receive this award. You are aware of his strong support of Mercy Care for the Adirondacks. He is a shepherd who truly cares for the often-forgotten person. His heart beats with the love and compassion of Christ. We are blessed.”

Yonkovig accepted the award with his usual grace, humility and gratitude. He said, “I am honored to accept this award but there are so many who are far more deserving than I am. Paul Reiss put so much of himself into Mercy Care and has helped so many. The Mercy Care Volunteers are a true inspiration to me.”

Mercy Care for the Adirondacks is located at 185 Old Military Road in Lake Placid. For more information, please visit Mercy Care’s web site at www.adkmercy.org.