Joy as Michael given Benemerenti medal

THERE was a sustained and enthusiastic round of applause for Michael Connolly recently, when he was presented with the papal medal, the Benemerenti.

Michael is the senior sacristan at the Holy Redeemer, and he has been serving the parish faithfully since May 1970. Monsignor Enda Lloyd presented the medal to Michael after Mass, which was attended by a very large crowd of well-wishers.

Mgr Lloyd said that the special medal was awarded by Pope Francis, for all of the dedicated years of service Michael has given over the past 47 years. Mgr Lloyd said that Michael has done so much for the parish over the years, from looking after the alter servers, to being a minister of Holy Communion, readings, a leader of the parish pilgrimage to Lourdes and much more.

‘Michael is someone the people hold in the highest regard,’ said Mgr Lloyd.

‘A number of people had requested that he get the medal. He gives a huge amount of time, energy, kindliness and goodness. On behalf of all the priests of the parish, we find him a most wonderful, reliable and lovely man,’ said Mgr Lloyd.

‘If he said he would do a thing, you wouldn’t ever have to ask again. And he is totally confidential. He’s a very chari- table man, in all his ways.

All of the parishioners delighted that Michael was being recognised for giving of his time and energy. He was joined by members of his family, friends, and the parish community. Everyone enjoyed a cup of tea and refreshments afterwards in the hall.

Michael Connolly is presented with the papal medal by Monsignor Enda Lloyd and Fr John O’Connoll.

Michael Connolly, sacristan at the Holy Redeemer, with his family – Martin, Trisha, Wes, Abbie, Alison and Alan – after being presented with a Benemerenti papal medal for his services to the Church.