Diocesan Members Awarded Papal Honors

My dear parishioners,

Bishop Burbidge has announced that 50 members of the Arlington Diocese have received special recognition by Pope Leo. [Read the full announcement here]

The Benemerenti Medal (“To one who is well-deserving” in Latin) is a medal awarded by the Pope to members of the clergy and laity for service to the Catholic Church.

Originally established by Pope Pius VI (1775–1799) as an award for soldiers in the Papal Army, this medal has been awarded since 1925 as a mark of recognition to persons in the service of the Catholic Church, both civil and military, lay and clergy alike. These Papal Honors will be formally conferred in a private ceremony by Bishop Michael F. Burbidge at a later date.

Congratulations to Sr. Mary Attilia Todaro, Sr. Donatella Merulla, and Jim McDaniel for receiving these Papal Honors for their dedicated service to the church. We are so proud and grateful for their ministry among us for the faith formation of our children and service to the poor. Please join me in extending our heartfelt appreciation and best wishes to them on this distinction and honor!

Love and Summer Blessings,
Msgr. Bob Cilinski, Pastor

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