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February 9, 2024At the CDAC breakfast on Wednesday, the Florida Bishops presented Representative Jenna Persons-Mulicka with the Defensor Vitae Award and the Florida Council of Catholic Women with the Thomas A. Horkan Jr., Distinguished Catholic Leader Award.
In 2023, Rep. Persons-Mulicka (R-Fort Myers) was the House sponsor of legislation prohibiting abortion after six-weeks gestation and gracefully steered her bill to final passage. This crucial bill also prohibited the use of state funds for travel to obtain abortion services outside the state. Notably, the bill also secured a significant increase in funding -- $25 million in recurring funds -- to expand services provided by the Florida Pregnancy Care Network. "Beyond her commitment to Southwest Florida, Representative Persons-Mulicka is a staunch and relentless advocate for the unborn," said Michael Sheedy, FCCB executive director, during the award presentation.
L to R: Michael Sheedy, Archbishop Wenski, and Rep. Jenna Persons-Mulicka
Members of the Florida Council of Catholic Women can be found all around the state of Florida, making a tremendous impact through faithful service in their parishes and communities. Catholic Days at the Capitol has benefited from the attendance of FCCW members for many years. “One would be hard-pressed to name a better partner group to the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops when it comes to lobbying the Florida legislature in person and electronically, and spreading awareness of the key public policy concerns of the day – on legislation, proposed constitutional amendments, and building up members of the Church as faithful citizens,” noted Sheedy
L to R: Michael Sheedy, Brenda Dolan, and Archbishop Wenski
The bishops were pleased to present the award to Brenda Dolan, FCCW president/province director, who accepted the award on behalf of the Council members.