the Benemerenti Medal, bestowed by Pope John Paul II was presented by Bishop Denis Browne on 16th March 2005 to our parishioner, Brian Marquand at St Matthew’s Roman Catholic Church, Silverdale, Hamilton.
What is the Benemerenti Medal?
“Benemerenti” is Latin for “Good Merit” / “To a well-deserving person”
Benemerenti Medals are awarded to individuals who have merited special recognition by the Holy See. This award seldom comes more than once during a pontificate.
The Medals are Pontifical decorations instituted by Gregory XVI in 1832, and awarded as a recognition of distinguished military and civil services. They are worn on the breast, suspended by ribbons of the papal colours.
Source: http://www.catholicforum.com/saints/ncd01203.htm
The civil Benemerenti Medal
This papal honour, the highest civilian award given by the Vatican, is conferred to men and women for exceptional accomplishment and service. It is given for distinguished service to Catholic principles, the Church and society, to people who have shown an active fidelity to and love for the Church
The award is not lightly given and is earned by sustained and outstanding witness. Although the archbishop nominates the candidates, the award is granted by the Holy Father based on merit and represent "his gratitude and esteem." The medal is a papal, not an archdiocesan award.
The award is accompanied by a certificate (in Latin).
