At the annual conference of the Association of Graduate Programs in Ministry, held in Tucson in February 2026, Dr. Emily Jendzejec was named the recipient of the inaugural Pope Francis “Timbro Pastorale” Award for Best Ministry Publication. The newly established award recognizes exemplary scholarship that advances pastoral practice and theological reflection in service to the Church.

Dr. Jendzejec received this first-ever honor for her essay, “Protagonists of Transformation: Organizing within a Synodal Church,” published in the Journal of Catholic Social Thought 21, no. 2 (Summer 2024): 378–397. In the article, she examines the work of Discerning Deacons, a movement that invites the people of God into prayerful reflection and dialogue about the diaconate in the life of the Church, while embracing synodality, Catholic social teaching, and community organizing. By analyzing its vision and strategies, Dr. Jendzejec offers a thoughtful study of this model for organizing within the Church—highlighting how faithful collaboration, shared discernment, and grassroots leadership can help Catholics participate more deeply in the Church’s ongoing mission.  

As the recipient of the inaugural Pope Francis “Timbro Pastorale” Award, Dr. Jendzejec is being recognized not only for scholarly excellence, but also for research that bridges theology and practice in service of a more participatory and mission-driven Church. Her work reflects the Loyola Institute for Ministry’s commitment to forming leaders who engage tradition thoughtfully, act justly, and contribute meaningfully to the ongoing renewal of the Church.