On Sunday 11th May 2025 Bishop Fintan Monahan awarded the Benemerenti Medals (meaning ‘well deserved’) to three very deserving ladies from our parish. Pauline Houhilan, Treasa Jones and Eleanor Kingston  received their Medals and Certificates, signed by the late Pope Francis during 11:30 Mass in St Josephs Church, Castleconnell, in recognition of all the work they have collectively done for the Church over the past several decades. Fr Willie was the driving force behind this tribute, it was he who applied for and received three Benemerenti Medals  on behalf of the ladies.

After Mass on Sunday the Pastoral Council welcomed all attendees to the newly refurbished Parish Hall for a cup of tea and some light refreshments. The weather was kind, and the day was a great Parish success, enjoyed by all.

The Benemerenti Medal (Italian: Croce pro Benemerenti, lit. ‘Cross for Meritorious [Service]‘) is a medal awarded by the Pope to members of the clergy and laity for service to the Catholic Church.