The Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis is grateful to announce that Pope Francis has bestowed papal honors upon four individuals for their exceptional service to the Catholic Church, especially in Catholic education. Receiving the Cross Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice award are:
- Mr. Frederick Blonigen: Retired teacher, Saint Agnes School, Saint Paul — 32 years of service
- Mrs. Jane Bona: Retired principal, Immaculate Conception Catholic School, Columbia Heights — 15 years of service
- Sister Tresa Jose Athickal, Franciscan Clarist Congregation: Retired teacher, Saint Therese Catholic School, Deephaven — more than 50 years of service
- Mr. Gary Wilmer: Retired Catholic education administrator, Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis — 58 years of service
On record, this is the first time that a Catholic educator of the Archdiocese has received this honor. “As the Archdiocese begins its celebration of the 175th anniversary of our founding, I am delighted that the Holy Father has recognized the dedicated service of these faithful women and men in Catholic education. Their contribution is still felt throughout our Archdiocese today,” said Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda. “What a selfless gift they have given to countless children, families and schools. We are so grateful for their ongoing witness to Jesus Christ in their communities.”
“We are thrilled to be able to celebrate these deserving Catholic educators for their papal honor,” said Dr. Jason Slattery, director of Catholic education and superintendent of schools. “These women and men have helped to lay a strong foundation for our entire Catholic school system, and we are grateful for their tremendous contributions to help form students and educate them for life. What a remarkable legacy of helping hand on the Catholic faith.”
Archbishop Hebda will present the medallion and scrolls associated with these honors on April 3 during the Archdiocesan Catholic School Leadership Convocation at Saint Mary in Stillwater. The Cross Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice (Latin for “For the Church and the Pope”) was established in 1888 by Pope Leo XIII. It is awarded to Catholics who have shown long and distinguished service to the Church and to the papal office.
