November 25, 2009. The Nobel prizes are awarded to those who have made notable discoveries or investigations for peace. But it’s not the only important recognition out there. Those who give service to the Church and the pope also receive an award of their own. It’s called the Holy Cross Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice.
Cardinal Franc Rode travelled to Brazil to award the prize to Monsignor Joao Scognamiglio Cla, founder of the Heralds of the Gospel.
Card. Franc Rode Prefect, Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life “The pope is grateful for your noble work, holy audacity, your love for the Church and the exceptional example of your life. You are the race of heroes and saints.”
The Holy Cross Pro Ecclesia is made of gold and has an image of Saint Peter and Saint Paul and a yellow and white band for the colors of the Vatican.
Mons. Joao Scognamiglio Cla Founder, Heralds of the Gospel “This award honors all of us—myself, the Heralds and the societies of apostolic life. We have the grace of God to be able to continue our work and your guidance, Eminence, as well as the Holy Father’s.”
The Heralds were also celebrating the approval of the female section and the priestly section of the Heralds of the Gospel.
Father José Fco. Hernández Medina. President, Heralds of the Gospel (Italy) “That was another reason why Cardinal Rode wanted to go to Sao Paulo, Brazil this summer to award the Holy Cross and celebrate our pontifical approvals in the proper place.”
This approval comes together with one granted by John Paul II in 2001. Founded in the 1970’s in Brazil, they are present in 50 countries around the world.
It’s spirituality is based on the adoration of the Eucharist, devotion to the Virgin and fidelity to the pope. It’s a spirituality that means to take the Gospel to all corners of the world.
November 25, 2009. The Nobel prizes are awarded to those who have made notable discoveries or investigations for peace. But it’s not the only important recognition out there. Those who give service to the Church and the pope also receive an award of their own. It’s called the Holy Cross Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice. 
