The parishioners of the tri-parish of St. Casimir Church in Wells, Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Easton and St. John the Baptist in Minnesota Lake were treated to a special occasion when Bishop John Quinn presided over the Saturday mass in Wells on March 4, according to a press release.

Quinn presented the Bishop’s Medal to one long-time parishioner. The Bishop’s Medal is an award given at the diocesan level to an individual who has served faithfully and in an exemplary manner for 20 or more years to further the mission of the Catholic church.

“Joanne Tibodeau is a faith-filled, Christ-centered woman who lives out her faith every day,” Quinn said when presenting the award. “Mrs. Tibodeau speaks freely of the Lord and how important He is in everything that she does.

“Mrs. Tibodeau’s focal point, as an educator and principal, is continually in the best interest of students. She generously gives of self to the students and teachers she has worked with over the years. Her gentle guidance when dealing with children is evident. She has touched the lives of students, and they come back to seek her out after they have graduated from St. Casimir’s School.

“Mrs. Tibodeau has been in education for many years as a teacher and administrator at Our Lady of Mount Carmel School and St. Casimir’s School. She is always willing to learn new methods to improve the educational process.

“Mrs. Tibodeau approaches each situation, issue or project with an open mind. She is committed to developing a process and finding solutions to bring improvement.

“Joanne Tibodeau is a humble and welcoming person with strong family values. We are blessed with Joanne’s leadership, guidance and love.”