On Saturday 1 March, at the 5pm Mass at Ss Peter & Paul, Mawdesley, John Cobham was awarded the Benemerenti Medal by Archbishop Malcolm McMahon OP in recognition of his lifelong service to the Church.

 

John’s connection to Ss Peter & Paul began at a young age, helping his father tend to the church grounds – a role his father carried out for nearly 50 years. From the age of 7 to 21, he was an altar server, and later took on numerous responsibilities, from church maintenance to overseeing large-scale projects. He remains an active member of the Parish Finance & Administration Committee, which he has served on since its formation in 1981.

 

His dedication extends beyond the church, having served as a Governor of Ss Peter & Paul’s Catholic Primary School since 1984, including over 20 years as Chair of Governors. He continues to be closely involved in building and maintenance projects at the school. In addition, he has been a Foundation Governor at St Mary’s Catholic High School, Leyland, since 2013, where he represented the school during its rebuild following a devastating fire.

 

Reflecting on his service, John commented: “My ‘commitment’ to the Church – I call it a sense of duty to God and the Parish – stems from the dedication and loyalty my parents had for Ss Peter & Paul’s. My father, especially, worked tirelessly alongside the priests, never seeking favour or reward.”

 

The parish community gathered to celebrate John’s well deserved honour, recognising his unwavering dedication and lifelong commitment to faith, service, and stewardship.