Congratulations to our sacristan Pat Gallagher, Ballybrown, who has been awarded the Benemerenti Medal by Pope Francis for outstanding service to the Church.  Our parish priest Fr Michael Cussen presented the Medal to Pat on Sunday 16th October 2022, referring to a special Proclamation prepared for the occasion.

Pat has served our parish faithfully as sacristan for over 15 years and we have all come to rely on his dedication and commitment.

Benemerenti Medals are bestowed on individuals who have merited special recognition by the Holy See. The Medals are Pontifical decorations instituted by Pope Gregory XVI in 1832 and are conferred on recipients for distinguished service to Catholic principles, the Church and society,  who have shown an active fidelity to and love for the Church.