In this Holy Year 2025, and in union with the universal Church and Pope Francis, we extend our CONGRATULATIONS to a well-deserving MRS. ANNE STAHEL on the milestone of receiving her second papal honor. Stahel, the Lewis Award foundress, benefactor, and sole “Chair Emeritus,” was presented the “Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice” (For Church and Pope) Cross on Wednesday, February 12, by Bishop Luis Rafael Zarama on behalf of Pope Francis at Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral (Raleigh). The Cross, per the Diocese of Raleigh website, is “a distinction established in 1888 that today is given to those who have shown long and distinguished service to the Church.”

Stahel’s latest papal honor distinguishes the Lewis Award – per its namesake (Monsignor Gerald Lawrence Lewis) and foundress – as recognized by each of the 21st century’s three pontiffs and three Diocesan bishops. This year, too, marks the 25th Anniversary of Msgr. Lewis’ designation as a prelate of honor (with the title of “monsignor”) by Pope/now Saint John Paul II. Bishop Francis Joseph Gossman conferred this honor in October 2000 – the month of Msgr. Lewis’ 68th Birthday. In 2011, Pope Benedict XVI recognized Stahel with the Benemerenti (“well-deserving”) Medal, bestowed by Bishop Michael Francis Burbidge. The medal, per the Diocese of Raleigh website, “is given to people who have done significant good for the Church.”