Dr. John Boyle Receives Papal Honor for Service

My Dear Brothers and Sisters,

This past week the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis announced that Pope Leo XIV recognized our very own longtime parishioner Dr. John Boyle for his exceptional service to the Catholic Church, especially in Catholic education, bestowing the Cross Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice award upon him for over 35 faithful years as Professor of Catholic Studies at the University of St. Thomas, where he also serves as Department Chair.

This is an incredible honor for Dr. Boyle and a fitting tribute to his growing legacy as an educator and disciple. All of us here at Nativity of Our Lord should be incredibly proud. 

It's also personally meaningful for me, who once upon a time was a student of his at the University of St. Thomas during my seminary studies. I'm grateful to God for his continued generous service and witness to me, the university, and indeed the universal Church.

Upon hearing the news, I asked Dr. Boyle to share a few words with the parish. Here is what he said:

"It is a grace to know that the Church thinks I have served her well. Otherwise, I am speechless."

Dr. Boyle, we love you, and we thank you for your incredible work and for sharing your prodigious gifts with us. We thank God for you and the blessing you are to our parish community. May God continue to bless you, your wife Dia, and your entire family.

Congratulations! Here's to 35 more years. 

In Jesus Christ Our Lord,
Fr. Rolf Tollefson