Kildare woman receives Benemrenti medal

A papal blessing and accompanying medal Benemerenti has been presented to Kilcullen woman Norah Breslin, in recognition of her work with Kilcullen & Gormanstown Parish over many decades.

Norah, who was known for her work in the parish chor, was presented the award at Sunday Mass celebrated in Kilcullen.

The presentation was made by Fr Gary Darby, and Norah was accompanied for the celebrations by her children, grandchildren and members of her extended family. Many of her parish friends attended the Mass, at which the choir also performed. Afterwards there was a reception in the Parish Centre, where a birthday cake was also presented, to mark Norah's upcoming 98th birthday.

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, and presented by local clergy on behalf of the Pope of the day.

In this case, the award is from 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.

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