Faithful Service Recognized with Papal Honours

The Most Rev. Francis Leo, Archbishop of Toronto, presented Papal Honours to six people during Mass on November 30 at St. Michael's Cathedral Basilica in downtown Toronto. 

Papal Honours provide an opportunity to recognize individuals who have exhibited the highest standards and values in making significant contributions to the Catholic Church. The conferral of Papal Honours dates back many centuries, with each award having its own history and relevance. All honours are granted by the Supreme Pontiff himself, following the nomination of worthy individuals by the local Church.

Awards were presented to the following recipients: 

Knight Commander of the Order of St. Gregory the Great - James Milway

Mr. Milway has been deeply involved in the Catholic community throughout his life. Most notably, he served as Chancellor of Temporal Affairs for the Archdiocese of Toronto for 10 years, which included the challenging period of global pandemic. Pictured here with Mr. Milway is Fr. Frank Portelli, Rector of St. Michael's Cathedral Basilica, His Grace, Archbishop Francis Leo and Fr. Edward Curtis, Chancellor of Spiritual Affairs for the Archdiocese of Toronto. 

Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice Cross - Michael Fullan

Mr. Fullan served as Executive Director of Catholic Charities for 29 years. Prior to retirement, he championed new initiatives to serve vulnerable seniors, with a particular emphasis on safe long-term care and comprehensive palliative care. Pictured here with Mr. Fullan is Fr. Frank Portelli, Rector of St. Michael's Cathedral Basilica, His Grace, Archbishop Francis Leo and Fr. Edward Curtis, Chancellor of Spiritual Affairs for the Archdiocese of Toronto. 

Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice Cross - John Gennaro

Mr. Gennaro has faithfully served the archdiocese for decades through his involvement with numerous organizations including Serra International, the Sovereign Military Order of Malta and the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem. Pictured here with Mr. Gennaro is Fr. Frank Portelli, Rector of St. Michael's Cathedral Basilica, His Grace, Archbishop Francis Leo and Fr. Edward Curtis, Chancellor of Spiritual Affairs for the Archdiocese of Toronto. 

Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice Cross - Joseph Mancinelli

A former Catholic School Board Trustee, Mr. Mancinelli has been a member of the Knights of Columbus for more than 40 years. He has given countless hours to numerous charitable causes serving the poor and marginalized. Pictured here with Mr. Mancinelli is Fr. Frank Portelli, Rector of St. Michael's Cathedral Basilica, His Grace, Archbishop Francis Leo and Fr. Edward Curtis, Chancellor of Spiritual Affairs for the Archdiocese of Toronto. 

Benemerenti Medal - Anthony Primerano

Mr. Primerano has been deeply engaged in the Catholic community, most recently leading an initiative to honour labourers, following the example of St. Joseph the Worker. Pictured here with Mr. Primerano is Fr. Frank Portelli, Rector of St. Michael's Cathedral Basilica, His Grace, Archbishop Francis Leo and Fr. Edward Curtis, Chancellor of Spiritual Affairs for the Archdiocese of Toronto. 

Benemerenti Medal - Silvija Vigeon (in absentia)

As a 35-year employee of the Archdiocese of Toronto, Ms. Vigeon supported senior church leaders including Gerald Emmett Cardinal Carter and Thomas Cardinal Collins. 

We extend our congratulations and continued prayers to all recipients.