Catholic scouting organization honors Bellevue teen for outstanding service

A Catholic homeschool student and parishioner at St. Peter Parish was recognized for outstanding service and leadership with a college scholarship from the National Catholic Committee on Scouting (NCCS).

Augustine Terneus of the Mid-American Council’s Boy Scouts of America Troop 319 was awarded $2,000 from the Tony & Patrice Steenfolk Family Scholarship.

In serving others, Terneus said he tries to emulate Saint Teresa of Calcutta, who “viewed her cheerful service as the act of being a ‘pencil in God’s hand.’”

Terneus, this year’s top honor graduate of the Catholic Homeschool Association of Omaha, is a member of his parish choir and was selected to play the pipe organ at the Annual White Mass celebrated by Archbishop George J. Lucas for Catholic medical professionals in the Archdiocese of Omaha.

Among his many service projects, Terneus has volunteered at the St. Vincent de Paul Society, collecting and distributing food and helping with the winter coat drive. He also played piano and accordion to entertain homeless men at the Beacon of Hope Shelter for men in Fort Dodge, Iowa.

“Maintaining a habit of service keeps one engaged, connected and more in tune with the needs of others,” Terneus said.

Terneus earned the rank of Eagle Scout at 16, completed 62 merit badges and held numerous leadership roles in scouting. He received the Congressional Award Silver Medal for service and personal and physical development and the President’s Education Award for academic achievement. He is also a recipient of the Serra Club Altar Server Award.

He plans to attend Wyoming Catholic College in the fall.