Dictionary
A modern dictionary of Catholic terms, both common and obscure. Find accurate definitions of words and phrases.
BENEMERENTI AWARD
Pontifical decoration begun by Pope Gregory XVI in 1852 and conferred in recognition of distinguished service in military or civil affairs. The military medal has on one side the image of Gregory XVI and on the other an angel bearing a scroll with the word benemerenti (to a well-deserving person) under the papal emblems. The civil medal has benemerenti surrounded by a crown of oak leaves engraved on its face side. They are worn on the breast, suspended by ribbons of the papal colors.
All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.
Recent Catholic Commentary
Pope Francis the Frank 9 hours ago
Those Harleys again June 17
Happy Father's Day! June 14
Top Catholic News
Most Important Stories of the Last 30 Days
Pope acknowledges 'gay lobby' influence in Vatican CWN - June 11