Benemerenti Papal Medal for Norah Breslin

File photo of Norah by Pat Foley.

A Papal blessing and accompanying medal Benemerenti will be presented to Norah Breslin on Sunday next at 11 o'clock Mass, writes Brian Byrne. Translating as 'Well Deserved', the medal is awarded by the Pope to members of the clergy and laity for 'long and exceptional service' to the Catholic Church.

The award is presented by local clergy on behalf of the Pope of the day, in this case Pope Francis who has assigned the Benemerenti 59 times since he was elected in 2013. The medal dates back to the 18th century, originally designated as an award to soldiers of the Papal Army, and became a civil decoration in 1925. It may still be awarded to members of the Pontifical Swiss Guard.

The current medal was crafted under the direction of Pope Paul VI — Pope from 1963 to '78. It features a gold Greek Cross portraying Christ with His hand raised in blessing. The left arm of the cross showcases the tiara and crossed keys emblem of the papacy, while the coat of arms of the current Pope adorns the right arm. It is suspended from a ribbon of yellow and white—symbolising the Papacy. 

Norah Breslin will be receiving the Benemerenti in the presence of members of her family and parishioners, many of whom will remember her work with the Parish Choir and in other musical areas of Kilcullen life. There  will be a reception after the Mass in the Parish Centre.

Among the many previous recipients in Catholic communities all over the world have been Baroness Maria von Trapp of the famous Trapp Family, and Irish schoolteacher and broadcaster Paddy Crosbie.

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