Applications Open for 2026 Century Farm Awards Honoring Catholic Farming Families
Catholic Charities Diocese of Toledo is now accepting applications for the 2026 Century Farm Awards, an annual recognition of Catholic families who have maintained a working farm or homestead for 100 years or more. Award recipients will be honored during the annual Mass for Farmers, celebrated by Bishop Daniel E. Thomas on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. at St. Michael Parish in Gibsonburg.
The Mass for Farmers and Century Farm Awards presentation is a cherished tradition organized and sponsored by the Catholic Charities Diocese of Toledo Rural Life Advisory Board. The celebration recognizes the dedication, faith, and perseverance of Catholic farming families while giving thanks for the important role farmers play in rural communities throughout the Diocese.
“The annual Mass and Century Farm Awards presentation is an awesome opportunity for Bishop Daniel Thomas to recognize Catholic family farms throughout our Diocese that have been operating for 100 years or more,” said Rodney Schuster, executive director of Catholic Charities Diocese of Toledo. “It often brings multi-generation family members together in celebration of their farms.”
The annual event also includes a visit by Bishop Thomas to a family farm, offering an opportunity for him to personally celebrate the witness of Catholic farmers and the blessings they bring to the Diocese.
“Our diocese is truly enriched by the deep fidelity and witness of our Catholic farmers,” Bishop Thomas said following a previous Mass for Farmers and Century Farm Awards celebration.
Catholic Charities invites eligible families to submit applications for the 2026 Century Farm Awards. Catholic families who have maintained a working farm or homestead for a century or more are encouraged to participate in this special recognition of their legacy and commitment.
To request a Century Farm Awards registration form or for more information, contact Marla Garner at (419) 214-4898 or mgarner@toledodiocese.org.
The 2026 Mass for Farmers and Century Farm Awards presentation will take place at St. Michael Parish, 317 E. Madison St., Gibsonburg.
PARISH PROMOTION: Toolkit
Posted July 24, 2026 at 12:21 pm