Canon Joe Feeney AP Kiltullagh, presents the Bene Merenti medal to Josie Costello in recognition of her outstanding service as sacristan of St Patrick’s church, Cloonfad, on February 17th, 2025
The Bene Merenti medal is an honour awarded by the Vatican in recognition of exceptional service to the Catholic Church. It was first established by Pope Gregory XVI in 1832 and is typically given to clergy, religious, and laypeople who have made significant contributions to the Church, often for long-standing service or extraordinary acts of faith and charity. The medal features an image of Christ or the Pope on one side and the Latin inscription Bene Merenti (“Well Deserving”) on the other. It is often awarded on special occasions, such as jubilees or retirements, and serves as a mark of distinction for those who have devoted themselves to the Church’s mission.
