Jean Fedigan named Lumen Christi Award Nominee

Jean Fedigan is a leading lady in the Diocese of Tucson community. As the founder and director of Sister Jose Women's Center, Jean has ministered to the desperate and complex needs of homless women for the past 13 years. 

The Catholic Extension "works in solidarity with people in America’s poorest regions to build up vibrant and transformative Catholic faith communities." The Catholic Extension awards grants and scholarships that allow ministries in mission dioceses to continue their impactful work.

Every year, the Catholic Extension names 40 nominees for the Lumen Christi Award, their highest honor which is "given to people who radiate and reveal the light of Christ present in the communities where they serve. They remind us that faith is still a relevant force in our society and culture. They remind us that there is so much energy and generosity in our Church. They remind us that there are people willing to sacrifice for the good of others."

“These humble heroes of our Church are sources of hope for us and our country,” said Catholic Extension’s president, Father Jack Wall.

Jean Fedigan is one of these humble heroes and was recently named a 2022-2023 Lumen Christi Award Nominee.

“You made me feel human today”

God has called Jean Fedigan to serve at Sister José Women’s Center in the Diocese of Tucson, Arizona. The center, which Fedigan founded in 2009 while still serving as Chief Nursing Officer at University of Arizona Healthcare Hospital, is dedicated to the care of homeless and trafficked women living on the streets of Tucson.

More than just providing shelter from the desert sun, or giving access to showers, laundry, meals, and clothing, the center has a deeper mission on behalf of these vulnerable women. The center seeks to ensure that these women feel loved, respected, and assured of their human dignity.

Fedigan serves people of all religions, cultures, and walks of life. Her compassion is freely offered to all without judgement, because she sees the face of Christ in all whom she meets. Many of guests have simply told her, ‘You made me feel human today.’

Later this year, the Catholic Extension will announce its seven finalists who will each "receive $10,000 to support and enhance their ministry. From among these finalists, the Lumen Christi Award Recipient will be selected and given a $25,000 grant, along with an additional $25,000 grant for the nominating diocese."

Congratulations, Jean Fedigan, Lumen Christi Award Nominee!