A business executive known for her leadership role in broadcast technology companies has been formally conferred with the papal honor “Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice” for her contributions to the Catholic media ministry.
Manuela Eudes Kelly, president and chief executive officer of Broadcast World Philippine Systems Inc., received the award during Mass at the Manila Cathedral on Thursday, Feb. 26.
In his homily, Cardinal Jose Advincula of Manila said the honor recognizes not only Kelly’s service but also her fidelity to God’s will.
“This distinction is not simply an honorary decoration, but an ecclesial affirmation,” Advincula said. “It reminds us of the universal call to holiness to which our baptism summons all of us in communion with all the people of God and the successor of Peter.”
He emphasized that Church awards reflect a life aligned with God’s will, not merely generosity or outward achievements, and reminded Kelly that the recognition does not mark the end of her Christian journey.
“Please remember that this is not yet your graduation from Christian life, nor your canonization,” he said.
Kelly told Radyo Veritas she sees the recognition as a renewed call to serve, not an endpoint.
“This is not a graduation,” she said. “Perhaps this is a lifelong commitment — whatever help I can offer, we are simply here to serve the mission of the Church.”
She acknowledged the award as a recognition of her family and colleagues in ministry.
Kelly also stressed the role of communication in advancing the Church’s mission, calling it a “sleeping giant” whose full strength can be realized through unity and collaboration among dioceses.
The Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice honor, one of the highest papal awards for laity, underscores service and dedication to the Church’s mission.
In 2004, Kelly also received the Catholic Mass Media Award’s “Serviam” recognition for her outstanding contributions to Church media.
