Press statement from Monsignor Eamon Martin, Diocese of Derry on the Conferral of a Papal Knighthood on Mr John Hume
The Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, has conferred on Mr John Hume the title of Knight Commander of the Equestrian Order of Saint Gregory the Great.
This Papal Knighthood has been conferred on Mr Hume in recognition of his outstanding services to Catholic Social Teaching in the area of peace.
Within the next year, the Church will celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of Blessed John XXIII’s Encyclical Pacem in Terris, in which he addressed the issues of world peace, justice and human rights. In light of this anniversary, it is particularly appropriate that the Holy Father should recognise Mr Hume with a papal knighthood. Mr Hume has worked tirelessly for peace and justice, at considerable personal cost and risk. In doing this, he has testified to the fundamental dignity of human beings and the universal, inviolable and inalienable rights presented by Blessed John XXIII in Pacem in Terris.
The Scroll of Conferral will be formally presented to Mr Hume at a special ceremony at a later date.
On behalf of the Diocese of Derry, I extend to Mr Hume, his wife Pat and their family congratulations on this great honour.
Ends
Notes to Editor:
Monsignor Eamon Martin is Diocesan Administrator of the Diocese of Derry, elected after the retirement of the Diocesan Bishop in November 2011.
Mr John Hume is recognised internationally for his work for peace. He received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1998.
The Pontifical Equestrian Order of St. Gregory the Great is an Order of Papal Knighthood established by Pope Gregory XVI in 1831.
Media information: Catholic Communications Office Maynooth, Brenda Drumm 00 353 (0) 87 310 4444
