Prestigious St George Award of the Episcopal Church awarded to Valerie Riddle

GREENVILLE, SC – The prestigious St George Award of the Episcopal Church was awarded to Valerie Riddle, Lower School Assistant Director and Chaplain in a surprise ceremony on April 13, 2016 at Christ Church Episcopal School (CCES). Mr. Lee Lewis, Jr., member of the Vestry and 32-year parishioner of Christ Church, presented the award to Mrs. Riddle.  Mrs. Riddle has been an active supporter of the Girl Scouts and the Boy Scouts at CCES, teaching the God and Country Award for the Boy Scouts numerous times, being an advocate for joining the scouts, and mentoring many scouts in their Eagle Scout projects— all of which played a huge role in her nomination for this award.

The St. George Award of the Episcopal Church is a national recognition to acknowledge outstanding service by adults in the spiritual, physical, mental, and moral development of youth through service to the Church and through national youth agency programs.  It is a prestigious award made available by the Youth Ministries Office of the Episcopal Church Center.  St. George is the patron saint of knighthood and of England.  His ideals describe many of the virtues demanded of those who would be leaders.

Mr. Lewis read from her nomination letter;

“Valerie Riddle is a shining example of the type of person who deserves the Saint George Award in the Episcopal Church.  She mentors students through hard times offering spiritual counseling that is unparalleled.  Giving to the youth community of Christ Church Episcopal (Church) and CCES is her life.  She has fully embraced the communities, serving as an absolute mentor to all.  Her judgement, love, giving nature, and faith, are very evident to all that come in contact with Valerie.”                                                                  -Anonymous

Father Harrison McLeod, Rector of Christ Church, proceeded to offer the Blessing of the St. George Medal, which he then bestowed upon Valerie’s neck.

This is a remarkable honor.  Valerie is highly regarded by the community for her Christian example and leading young students into a strong relationship with God.