John Furlong pictured with his
Papal Benemerenti medal after
being presented with the award
by Bishop Alphonsus Cullinan on
March 15. Photo: Anne Connors. John Furlong of Crooke, Co. Waterford was honoured with a Papal Benemerenti medal, presented to him by Bishop Alphonsus Cullinan at a special Mass over the weekend.
The Papal Benemerenti medal, awarded by Pope Leo, honours laity with exceptional dedication to the Catholic Church and community. Mr Furlong’s contribution to parish life, specifically his service to the parish choir, is a prime example of this dedication at a local level.
Mr Furlong was the first male member of the choir in 1975, and has continued to serve the choir for the past 50 years. In his address, Bishop Cullinan noted how his role in the choir helped inspire other male singers to join.
Mr Furlong’s family and friends, among many others, gathered for the Mass to celebrate his faith and commitment to the parish at St John the Baptist Church, Crooke, on Sunday March 15.