St. Joseph president to receive papal medal

PORTLAND – Sister Mary Norberta Malinowski, president of St. Joseph Healthcare of Bangor, is one of three nuns expected to receive a papal medal at a Mass here tonight.

Bishop Joseph J. Gerry is scheduled to present a number of pontifical and diocesan awards in honor of the Jubilee Year, according to Marc R. Mutty, spokesman for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland. Gerry decided to honor a number of priests, religious and laypersons for their contributions to the life of the church, according to a diocesan press release.

“I was really taken by surprise when Bishop Michael Cote called to tell me I’d been nominated for it,” said Sister Norberta on Thursday. “I didn’t think I’d done anything that spectacular. I think it’s great for the hospital and I share this with everyone here. It’s everybody working and pulling together that really deserves this honor.”

The Felician sister said that she was aware of the award before her nomination. While a bishop nominates someone for the honor, it is actually awarded by Pope John Paul II.

“Our general mother was one of the sisters who received it in N.J.,” she said. “It is very a prestigious award. I think it is most significant for me because it is a religious award and it’s coming from Rome and it is being given to me by the bishop. It is very humbling.”

The Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice Medal that Sister Norberta will be given was founded by Pope Leo XIII on July 17, 1888. Traditionally, it has been given to women throughout this century. The medal consists of a gold Greek cross.

In the center of the square-shaped cross are the images of the apostles Peter and Paul. At the base of the cross is the name of the reigning Pope in Latin, above the papal arms in a modern stylized fashion. The medal hangs from a ribbon which is yellow and white, the heraldic colors of the Holy See.

Sister Mary Consuela White of Mercy Hospital in Portland and Sister Rita-Mae Bissonnette, a chancellor of the diocese also are expected to receive the same award.

The Mass for the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception will be held at 7 p.m. at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Today is the Feast Day of the Immaculate Conception.