Southwark parishioner awarded the Benemerenti medal for service
Peter Eastwood from Christchurch Eltham parish was awarded the Benemerenti medal, a special award from Pope Francis, for his exceptional service to the Catholic Church
Monsignor Canon James Cronin visited Christchurch Eltham Parish on the first Sunday of Advent (1 December 2024) to award a parishioner, Peter Eastwood, with the Benemerenti medal.
Peter has been a faithful and prayerful member of the parish. For nearly 60 years he has been Eltham’s Master of Ceremonies and has organised and successfully led the parish’s Confirmation programme for 34 years.
The Benemerenti medal is an honour awarded by the Pope for service to the Catholic Church, it can be awarded to clergy and laity. It’s awarded for distinguished and exceptional service and the service of Peter has certainly been exceptional.
As well as playing a key part in formation in the parish, Peter has a particular devotion to Our Lady of Lourdes and initiated ‘Christchurch Youth Lourdes Helpers’. Each year, Peter has taken young people from the parish and the local school, St Thomas More, to help has brancardiers at the hospital in Lourdes.
Peter’s recommendation was supported by Parish Priest, Revd. John Fricker and retired Parish Priest Revd. Anthony Maggs, as well as the Very Revd. Garry Murphy. In the recommendation, they said:
“Peter’s joy and faith in the Lord, expressed so clearly in the way that he lived his life, were and continue to be an inspiration.”
Monsignor Canon Cronin said it was a joy to be with Peter, his family and the parish to award this special medal.
Peter was joined by his family, including his granddaughter, as well as many parishioners and people Peter has supported over the years.
The whole of the Archdiocese congratulates Peter on his medal and extends their sincere gratitude for his devotion and faith.
