Prestigious Papal Award for Oxford Brother
(edited version of Fr Ziggy’s presentation homily).
On Sunday 8th June 2025, Oxford Brother Phil Kelly was awarded the prestigious Bene Merenti papal medal in recognition of his long and faithful service to the parish of Blessed Dominic Barberi, Littlemore, Oxford.
Phil was born in Ireland, and his parents moved to Oxford when he was still a boy. From the early years he was fully engaged in the parish life.
For over 60 years, Phil’s contribution to the parish community was and still is immense.
He was an incredible helper to all parish priests, and especially the last three priests – Fr Patrick Armstrong, Fr John Hancock and Fr Zbigniew (Ziggy) Zieba.
For many years he has been one of the main organizers of the Summer Fete and Christmas Bazaar. He still continues to do this, with great enthusiasm and strong willingness.
He took part, as an expert waiter, for the annual pensioners Christmas dinners in the old parish hall. He was also part to the annual parish fundraiser team. For many years, he drove elderly parishioners to Mass every Sunday morning.
For many years, he was a member of the parish finance committee, and he has been helping and offering great support to the parish priests with the church accounts. He still remains in this role.
Phil is an active and respected member of the Oxford Catenian Circle, and always joins in their social events. He is a thoughtful and caring brother, who thinks about others. He brings cheerfulness to the meetings and gatherings. He has also been very supportive of brothers in need in very practical ways.
He is well known also in other parishes in Oxford and surrounding areas. His immense generosity and goodness, is very well received by others.
Phil is a great ambassador, not only for this Parish, but also for the Catholic Church in general. He truly lives out the Gospel in his daily life. Over a few decades, his strong faith – has been a true example, and a model for others and encouraging for many.
Although he would never ask for this to be recognised, the Parish felt that they should thank him, by recommending him the Bene Merenti Medal.
The Archbishop of Birmingham, Bernard Longley, passed on his best wishes and hoped that this award, will be a way of thanking and affirming Phil, for all that he has given so generously to the Church, and to Blessed Dominic Barberi Parish in particular, in so many ways.
The presentation took place during Holy Mass on 8th June 2025. The church was packed with parishioners, visitors and a strong contingent of Oxford Catenian Brothers and wives.
Phil is the fourth Oxford brother to be awarded this prestigious award. Previous recipients have been, Bro Alan Edmondson (RIP), Bro Denis O’Driscoll (RIP) and former Brother Peter Selwood.
