A Columbia couple are only the second and third recipients in the Diocese of Jefferson City’s history to receive the prestigious Knight of Pope St. Sylvester and Dame of Pope St. Sylvester award. Michael and Cheryl Kelly received the honors from Bishop Shawn McKnight on behalf of Pope Francis during the May 18 Saturday Vigil Mass of Pentecost in Our Lady of Lourdes Church.
The honors were given “in recognition of your contributions to the well-being and growth of the Church and the Catholic Faith, as a sign of our gratitude,” according to a proclamation from the Vatican.
The Kellys have generously given to the parish and diocese, serving on numerous boards and committees. They have been instrumental in the development of Fr. Tolton Regional Catholic High School.
“I am personally grateful (to the Kellys) for their presence in our local Church, and I have found them to be great examples of our Catholic faith in the flesh,” Bishop McKnight stated. To read more, click here for an article from the Catholic Missourian.