The Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, Most Rev. (Dr.) Alfred Adewale Martins, will confer Papal honors on five distinguished lay faithful of the Archdiocese on September 14, 2024.
The ceremony will take place at Holy Cross Cathedral, Lagos.
In a statement issued by Very Rev. Fr. Julius Olaitan, Episcopal Vicar for Lagos Region, and Sir Soleye Hughes KSG, Chairman of the Archdiocese of Lagos All Purpose Committee 2024 Investiture Planning Committee, the honorees have been recognized by Pope Francis for their exceptional service and dedication to the Church across various apostolates.
The recipients include Mr. Peter Amangbo, who will be honored as a Knight of St. Gregory, and Messrs Walter Akpani and Peter Nwanze, who will be invested as Knights of St. Sylvester. Lady Christine ‘Doja Otedola and Mr. Julius Olufunsho Britto will receive the Medal of Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice.
Archbishop Martins praised the honorees, stating, “These individuals have demonstrated exceptional faith and morals and have made significant contributions to both the Church and society. These awards recognize their dedication and commitment to their faith.”
The investiture will be part of the Eucharistic celebration for the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross and is expected to draw a large congregation and numerous well-wishers.
Papal honors are awarded by the Pope in recognition of exemplary service to the Church. The Order of St. Gregory the Great, initially established for men in 1831, now also includes women as “Dames.”
The Order of St. Sylvester, reformed in 1905, and the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice Medal, established in 1888, are awarded based on recommendations from bishops or papal nuncios for notable services to the Church.
