ROSSANO. Italy
In the Cathedral of Rossano-Cariati (Italy), at the conclusion of the Chrism Mass celebrated on May 11, Lia Panera, member of the Teresian Association received ecclesial recognition for her many years of dedication and volunteer work for the diocesan Caritas.
Most Reverend Giuseppe Satriano, Apostolic Administrator of Rossano-Cariati − recently appointed Archbishop of Bari-Bitonto − conferred the Crux pro Ecclesia et Pontifice on Lia Panera for her commitment to the ecclesial community. The prelate underlined her discreet and efficient way of ecclesial presence as well as her generous ongoing engagement.
Lia was in charge of the diocesan Caritas for six years and is now director emeritus. Born in León (Spain), she has lived in Italy since she was very young and has acquired Italian nationality.
In addition to having taught history and philosophy for a long time in various high schools in the area, she has worked actively for many years in the more disadvantaged neighbourhoods of the city. She founded and developed the voluntary association Insieme, which since 1995 has been carrying out activities for the education of young people and families, especially those in situations of risk. Lia Panera “teacher and social animator, has been a reference point for many young people and families in the area”, said a local newspaper.
Here we are including an extract from the transmission of the Mass from the Cathedral of Rossano where the awarding of this decoration to Lia Panera took place at the end of the ceremony. The transmission was broadcast by the regional television channel LaC-TV.The Crux pro Ecclesia et Pontifice is the highest honour conferred on lay people who have distinguished themselves for their service to the Church.
Congratulations to Lia on receiving this recognition and our gratitude to her for the witness she has been giving in Calabria.
Anna Doria, Rome.
TA Translators Team.
