Prep Talk

Pope Francis Bestows Honors on Prep Dignitaries

Posted November 21st, 2016

On the heels of a memorable 2015 visit to the city of Philadelphia by Pope Francis, His Holiness bestowed Papal Honors upon a select group of individuals.  The honorable recipients were recognized for their dedication and exceptional service to the World Meeting of Families Philadelphia-2015 and the pastoral visit of the Holy Father to Philadelphia.

Among those honored were the following members of the St. Augustine Prep Family:

Named Dame/Knight in the Order of St. Gregory

Mrs. Joan Hilferty and Mr. Daniel Hilferty: A 1974 graduate of the Prep, Dan Hilferty served as a WMOF-Philadelphia 2015 Executive Leadership Cabinet Chair and is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Independence Blue Cross.

Honored with the Cross Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice

Mr. Chris Gheysens: A 1986 graduate of the Prep, Chris Gheysens served as a WMOF-Philadelphia 2015 Executive Leadership Cabinet Member and is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Wawa Corporation.

Mr. Eustace Wolfington: A dear friend of the Prep, Eustace Wolfington served as a WMOF-Philadelphia 2015 Executive Leadership Cabinet Member and is the President of Cabrini Asset Management.

Honored with the Benemerenti Medal

Dr. Rosalie Mirenda and Mr. Anthony Mirenda: Grandparents of current Hermits AJ DelleMonache (’17), Justin Mirenda (’19), and Steven DelleMonache (’20), Dr. Mirenda served as a WMOF-Philadelphia 2015 Board Member and is the President of Neumann University.

The honors were officially presented by Archbishop Charles J. Chaput at a ceremony held last Thursday at the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul.  Congratulations to each of the honorees and thank you for carrying the fire!