John Aust, a parishioner at Holy Family Cathedral, was named 2017 Diocese of Orange Catholic Man of the Year. At the May 18 Award dinner at the Wyndham Hotel in Garden Grove, all the men nominated were recognized for their work and commitment to the faith. They include: Luis Higareda, Matthew Arnold, James Cordes, Doug Catiller, Angel Kagoo, Mark Jablonski, Patrick Lauder MD, Richard Torres, Dr. Vince Fortanasce, David Rime, Henry Garrido, Carlos Colorado, Jeffrey Graass, Gonzalo Gonzalez and Dr. Samuel Poidmore DDS.
As John Aust received his award, it was noted that he gives credit to his mom for his formative years, and his Cursillo weekend as the most significant event that helped form his spiritual life. His sister first inspired him to do volunteer work, saying that when you’re having a bad day, focus on someone else you can help that day. From that advice he became more aware of identifying what others may need.
“Having strong men of faith within my Cursillo community as friends and spiritual helpmates has been enormous in my life,” Aust said. His message to our youth: “Be grateful for all that God has given you; be the best version of yourself that you can be; and when you are having a bad day, stop and put aside what you are doing and focus on someone else’s needs and do something about it. You never know where that may take you.”