Benemerenti Medal | |
---|---|
Awarded for | Long and exceptional service to the Catholic Church |
Country | Holy See |
Presented by | Pope Francis |
Eligibility | Clergy and laity |
Status | Active |
Established | 1832 |
Precedence | |
Next (higher) | Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice |
Next (lower) | Lateran Cross Jerusalem Pilgrim's Cross |
The Benemerenti Medal is a medal awarded by the Pope to members of the clergy and laity for service to the Catholic Church. Originally established as an award for soldiers in the Papal Army, it is now a civil decoration but may still be awarded to members of the Pontifical Swiss Guard.