June
2008
Pope Honours St Felix Parishioners
The following is an extract from today’s (8th June) Press Release:
“Pope Honours Felixstowe Parishioners”
Two Felixstowe parishioners, John King (80) and Alan Deveney (77), have been honoured with the Benemerenti papal medal. Fr David Hennessy presented the medals on behalf of Pope Benedict XVI, during Sunday Mass at St Felix RC Church on June 8.
The papal honour, instituted by Pope Gregory XVI in 1832, is given to those who have shown exemplary service to their church, family and community. Along with the medal, both men were handed a large framed certificate signed by Pope Benedict XVI recognising their achievements. The Benemerenti (meaning “well deserved”) is one of the highest papal awards, and is surpassed only by a full papal knighthood.
The medal depicts the image of Christ on a gold Greek cross – the Saviour has his hand raised in blessing. On the left of the transverse arm of the cross is a depiction of the tiara and crossed keys, and to the right is the shield of Pope Benedict XVI and his motto. On the reverse is the word Benemerenti. The insignia is suspended from a ribbon of the papal colours – yellow and white.
The award follows a petition to the Vatican by St Felix parish priest, Fr David Hennessy. An extract reads “John and Alan are also well known throughout this diocese, having over very many years been strong supporters of diocesan events and gatherings. They and their wives and families have been great friends all throughout this time, and both men have carried their share of the cross in many ways with family problems and challenges. In short, both men are outstanding in their witness to the Catholic Church and to family life. Given their bonds of friendship, I would feel it fitting that they should be honoured together with the Benemerenti.”
Although their lists of accomplishments are both long and impressive, John King and Alan Deveney have humbly deflected fame. They are always ready to support projects that promote the greater glory and honour of God.
Afterwards, both men expressed their gratitude at receiving the awards and had time to reflect on the ceremony and what it meant. Alan Deveney who had first come to the parish in 1968 said, “I’m extremely honoured. Neither my wife Meg nor I had any idea that this was going to happen to me. Fr David did a good job in keeping it secret. In fact, I had been giving Fr David some background information on my dear friend, John King, who received the award alongside me. It was very nice indeed. “
John King offered his thoughts on the award, “I’m absolutely thrilled. I’m as surprised as Alan at receiving this award . My wife Barbara and I have only just returned from holiday. We’ve hardly had a chance to catch our breath. It’s just as well we didn’t choose to have a lie in this morning and go to a later mass as that would have foxed Fr David! I’m deeply grateful for the support received from the parish over the past 37 years. There are many others worthy of the award, and I feel very honoured to receive the medal.”
Fr David put their names forward because: “I felt it was important that their contributions not just to the Church but to the wider community be recognised.” He concluded, “The parish is extremely grateful for their dedication and love. This award is an earthly one. We pray that God Himself may reward both men hereafter.”
Ends
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