The Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis is grateful to announce that Pope Leo XIV has bestowed papal honors upon two individuals for their exceptional service to the Catholic Church, especially in Catholic education. Receiving the Cross Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice award are:
- Mrs. Regina (Gina) Ashley: Principal, Divine Mercy Catholic School, Faribault — In collaboration with Divine Mercy Catholic Church and its pastor, Mrs. Ashley led a capital campaign to build a new parish school. This 15-year project made it possible for the preschool- to fifth-grade parochial school to be physically connected to the parish rather than located miles away. Mrs. Ashley has served at the school for 37 years, 14 of those years as principal. For decades, Mrs. Ashley has worked to increase enrollment and provide a Catholic education to the Faribault community.
- Dr. John Boyle: Professor of Catholic Studies at the University of St. Thomas, St. Paul — Dr. Boyle has been a professor of Catholic Studies for more than 35 years, accompanying and teaching UST Catholic Studies students both in Saint Paul and in Rome. As an award-winning author on the topics of Saint Thomas Aquinas, Saint Thomas More and additional topics in the field of Catholic Studies, Dr. Boyle serves as a credible witness to Christ both inside and outside the classroom. Many of his former students serve as teachers in the Catholic elementary and high schools in the Twin Cities.
This is the second consecutive year that Catholic educators of the Archdiocese have received this honor.
“I am delighted that the Holy Father has recognized the exemplary service of two local leaders in Catholic education as we in the Archdiocese continue the celebration of our 175th Jubilee,” said the Most Rev. Bernard A. Hebda, archbishop of Saint Paul and Minneapolis. “Growing up in an American family that valued Catholic education, Pope Leo clearly understands the far-reaching and multi-generational impact that an educator can have. The inspiring contributions of Mrs. Ashley and Dr. Boyle illustrate the very best of the Church’s outreach to students ranging from preschool to graduate studies. We have been blessed by their ongoing witness to Jesus Christ and their untiring efforts to strengthen His Church.”
“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. “With perseverance and grace, Mrs. Ashley and Dr. Boyle have advanced the mission of Catholic education in our local Church. Their tremendous work is helping to form students of all ages and educate them for life. And for that we thank Almighty God.”
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. Archbishop Hebda will present the medallions and parchments associated with these honors to Mrs. Ashley and Dr. Boyle on April 7 in Minneapolis at the opening Mass of the National Catholic Educational Association’s annual convention. Honorees will also be recognized at the Archdiocesan Catholic School Leadership Banquet April 8.
