Chris O’Brien was not expecting any recognition for his years of work with Our Lady of Fatima Church.
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He did it willingly and with love, much to the deep appreciation of Mary Queen of Apostles parish priest Father Dermid McDermott and parishioners.
So it came as a “complete surprise” when Vicar General of the Canberra/Goulburn Archdiocese, Fr Tony Percy announced at Our Lady of Fatima Mass recently that Mr O’Brien had received the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice (For Church and Pope) Medal. The award from Pope Francis recognised his services to Our Lady of Fatima Church, North Goulburn and for organising parish visitation to the sick and housebound over many years.
The gold medal was instituted by Pope Leo XIII in 1888 for distinguished service to the Church by lay people and clergy. Saints Peter and Paul’s restoration project manager Brian Watchirs also received one several years ago.
Mr O’Brien didn’t believe t until he saw his wife Anne sitting in the congregation with daughter Joanne from Brisbane and her brother Dominic and his wife Melinda of Goulburn.
In his gracious reply, he acknowledged all those who helped him in his ministry.
Fr McDermott nominated Mr O’Brien through the Archdiocesan Nuncio, with letters of support also written by Fr Kevin Brannelly and Fr Henry Byrne.
Mr O’Brien was a former chair of the Parish’s finance committee for 10 years before it amalgamated. He also serves as an acolyte.
“He’s a very quiet man who just gets on with the job,” Fr McDermott said.