Papal Awards

Applying for a Bene Merenti Medal

The Bene Merenti Medal is a Papal honour awarded by the Holy Father in recognition of exceptional, voluntary, long-standing and faithful service to the life and mission of the Catholic Church.

It is one of several Papal honours and is reserved for those whose dedication has extended over many years, often decades, of generous voluntary service. The award recognises individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the Church beyond what would normally be expected.

It is important to note that the Bene Merenti Medal is not a retirement gift and is not awarded simply in recognition of someone carrying out the responsibilities of their paid employment. Rather, it is intended to acknowledge exceptional commitment and service that has significantly enriched the life of the Church over a sustained period.

Parish Applications

Applications for a Bene Merenti Medal should be initiated through the nominee’s parish priest.

The parish priest should:

• Discuss the proposed nomination with the individual or those making the recommendation.
• Ensure that the Bene Merenti Medal is the most appropriate Papal honour, as there are several different Papal awards available.
• Complete the diocesan application form.
• Submit the completed application by email, together with:
• the nominee’s curriculum vitae (CV); and
• a covering letter outlining the reasons why the individual should be considered for the award, including details of their outstanding service to the Church.

There is a fee of £265 associated with a successful application, which is the responsibility of the parish.

As applications are considered through the appropriate ecclesiastical channels, there is no fixed timescale for the process.

School Applications

Applications relating to members of Catholic school communities should follow the same process as parish applications and should also include:

• authorisation from the Diocesan Director of Education; and
• the support of the Chair of Governors.

Applications should be submitted with the completed application form, the nominee’s CV and a covering letter explaining the reasons for the nomination and outlining the individual’s exceptional service to the Church.

The application fee of £265 is payable by the school or sponsoring body. As with all Papal honours, there is no fixed timeframe for the consideration of applications.

Long Service Recognition in Catholic Schools

The Bene Merenti Medal should not be used as a long service or retirement award.

For members of Catholic school staff whose service is being recognised primarily for dedication and long service in education, the Diocese operates its own Diocesan Medal Award.

Nominations for the Diocesan Medal should be submitted to the Director of Education, who will advise on the nomination process.