Each year, the Cathedral Basilica acknowledges a member of our religious or civic community with our prestigious Keys and Sword Award, named in honor of Saints Peter and Paul, which recognizes extraordinary commitment and selfless dedication in service to others. It acknowledges one whose actions reflect the Gospel values of faith, valor, selfless service, personal sacrifice and respect. The Award was designed by Robert F. McGovern. Honorees are nominated and selected by a process of consultation involving clergy and cathedral Parishioners and members of the Archdiocesan Community.
The Keys and Sword Award was first presented in 2008 to the Cathedral’s longest-tenured rector, Monsignor James J. Howard. In 2009, the Cathedral recognized Philadelphia Police Commissioner Charles Ramsey. In 2010, in recognition of the Archdiocese’s participation in the universal observance of the Year of the Priest, the Award was presented to the Priests of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, accepted the award on behalf of the Priests. 2011 marked the first time there were dual recipients of the Award, Dr. Rosalie Mirenda, President of Neumann University, and Mr. Robert Sims, dedicated leader within the Archdiocese for many years.
2012 Keys and Sword Award Information:
Those interested in joining us for the Keys and Sword Award have a number of ways to do so. Individual tickets for the event are one way. Various levels of Sponsors and Patrons are offered, including Event Sponsor, Award Sponsor, Keys and Sword Sponsor, Platinum Patron and many more. The event program booklet also offers the opportunity for full, half, quarter-page and business card-sized advertising. Information regarding tickets, sponsorships and program booklet advertising are available on this Website four months prior to the event.
View videos of the Award's previous recipients:
2012 Sponsors:
A special thanks to those that made the 2012 Keys and Sword Award Possible: Click Here
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Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter & Paul
18th Street & Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia, PA 19103
215.561.1313
© 2013 Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
