Pope Francis granted special recognition to 17 people from various areas of the Diocese of Victoria (one posthumously) who have consistently dedicated time and talents for the glory of God and the good of the Catholic Church. The awards represent powerful examples of what it means to be a disciple of Christ.

Some were awarded the papal honor Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice (For Church and Pope), and some were awarded the Benemerenti (meritorious) award.
Among the recipients are deacons, religious sisters and laypeople. 

The awards will be presented at a special Mass at 10 a.m. Oct. 7 at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Victory. 

Ms. Ana Licia “Alicia” Gutierrez (St. Robert Bellarmine, El Campo)

Ms. Gutierrez served as church secretary at St. Robert Bellarmine 1988-1991 and 1995 to present. In her role, she has been a counselor, assistant, record keeper, bookkeeper, Safe Environment coordinator, trainer, host of fundraisers and much more. She is a founding member of Guardias de Honor (2022). As a child, she helped her parents make breakfast for parishioners and raise funds for the parish, so her service has been lifelong. She has been called the “backbone” of her parish and was caretaker for former pastor, Monsignor Lawrence Matula, in the later years of his life.

She will receive the Benemerenti (meritorious). It was first awarded as a military decoration for the Pope’s Army, but is now given for dedicated service.

All are invited to come and show our love and support to all receipients especially our own Ana Licia Gutierrez!