The International Order of the Golden Rule (OGR) is proud to announce that Rafael (Raffy) Jose is the winner of the 2023 Golden Light Award. The award was presented on May 3, 2023, at the Golden Circle Celebration Awards Dinner held a in Indianapolis.
The OGR Professional Service Awards are among the most prestigious accolades in the field, recognizing outstanding contributions and achievements in various categories. A distinguished panel of industry experts carefully reviewed nominations and selected the winners based on their demonstrated expertise, exceptional client service, and significant impact on their respective fields.
In 2002, OGR instituted its most prestigious award, the Golden Light Award, to salute professional excellence exemplified by individual members who have inspired others by their commitment to service. OGR members nominate a fellow member who has distinguished him or herself in the funeral profession through OGR involvement, community service, or volunteer activities that demonstrate "service measured not by gold, but by the Golden Rule."
2023 Golden Light Recipient: Rafael (Raffy) Jose, Arlington Memorial Chapels, Quezon City, Manila, Philippines
Raffy, a visionary and innovative funeral director, has made significant contributions to OGR over the years. He served on the OGR Board of Directors for a four-year term, bringing a fresh perspective on global issues, emerging trends, DEI, and creative solutions. Presently, Raffy holds the position of Chair in the OGR Professional Development Committee, where he actively contributes to shaping the content for webinars and the Annual Conference. Additionally, he co-leads the OGR International Study Group, providing valuable insights and feedback to fellow professionals to facilitate the growth of their businesses.
Raffy places great emphasis on active community involvement for his funeral home and staff. In 2023, the Arlington team organized the Yuletide Remembrance Tree celebration at Hospicio de San Jose, a foster care institution catering to orphans, the abandoned, and the elderly. Through this initiative, Arlington donated money to support the institution's ongoing endeavors.
Furthermore, during the Department of Education's week-long event called Brigada Eskwela, aimed at improving public school infrastructure, members of the Arlington team dedicated their time to volunteer, assisting with renovations and cleaning the school campus. In June 2020, the Arlington family launched a commemorative book on grief titled "Turning the Page." This heartfelt compilation comprises letters, stories, prayers, and poems focusing on love and loss. The proceeds from this fundraising project were directed towards providing protective gear for frontline workers in public hospitals.
"Raffy's forward-thinking approach as a funeral director has been invaluable to both OGR and the profession as a whole,” said OGR President Christopher Miller. “His significant contributions over the years have made a tremendous impact and elevated our profession."