The Nuncio George Kocherry delivers the "Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice" cross to Dr. Benedict Alo D'Rozario and the widow of the jurist Promod Mankin. It is the first time that two Bangladeshi laity receive this honor, the highest recognition granted by the Vatican. Their commitment "was of enormous impact for the Church and for Bangladeshi society."
Dhaka (AsiaNews) - The Vatican's nuncio in Bangladesh was awarded for the first time in the history of the local Church with two "Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice" crosses to two lay people who - with their commitment - have "changed the country and society".
The recipients are Dr. Benedict Alo D'Rozario, historic leader of Caritas, and the deceased jurist Promod Mankin, for years engaged in politics in favor of minorities.
The Cross is awarded to those lay people (men and women) and to those clerics who are distinguished for their service to the Church and the person of the Roman Pontiff. The award ceremony was held at the headquarters of the Episcopal Conference, attended by eight bishops and two archbishops as well as 60 representatives of the Catholic community.
Dr. D'Rozario told AsiaNews: "This recognition inspires me even more in my service to the Church and the country. I will do everything possible to ensure that mI do my best to serve the community until the end of my days".
His career began with the passing of examinations of the civil service, a coveted post that opens to doors to positions in government. Instead, he chose to work in the Bishops' Commission for Justice and Peace and then in Caritas. Until 2015 he headed the "charitable arm" of the Catholic Church in Bangladesh.
Instead, the award for Promod Mankin was received by his widow. The member of parliament, who died a few months ago, was for years president of Catholic institutions and regional director of Caritas Mymensingh. After this first phase of his life he entered politics, being elected deputy for several mandates. He always used his role to help minorities in the country.
The president of the Bangladesh Episcopal Conference , Msgr. Patrick D'Rozario, commented at the end of the award ceremony: "These two figures have made an outstanding contribution to the Church and society of the country, which they have helped change for the better. That's why we honor them, respect them and are grateful for their contribution".