Catholic Charities of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties

Award for distinguished service

SAN BERNARDINO CA – On May 20, 2010, Ken F. Sawa, CEO of Catholic Charities, was awarded the Pro Ecclesia Et Pontifice Cross. This “Cross of Honor” is currently given for distinguished service to the church by lay people and clergy. It is the highest medal that can be awarded to the laity by the Papacy.

“This papal honor is given for meritorious service to the Universal Church and is given to you in the name of our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI,” said Bishop Gerald R. Barnes Bishop of the Diocese of San Bernardino in a letter of congratulations. “I am grateful for the many years of ministry and service you have shared with the people of the Diocese of San Bernardino.”

Mr. Sawa has worked at Catholic Charities for 17 years, Mr. Sawa was quoted as saying “I see this honor as papal recognition for all of us in the Catholic Community who work tirelessly for Social Justice and Charity, despite all odds. This recognition is a tremendous affirmation for those of us who have committed ourselves to the care of the most vulnerable around us.”