In recognition of the dedicated service of Very Reverend Francis Mitchell, JCL, KCHS, over the past nine years the Cardinal Grand Master has awarded the Order’s Gold Palm of Jerusalem to Fr. Francis. Palm leaves are worn in memory of Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem.
The award was presented to Fr. Francis, on behalf of the Cardinal Grand Master, by Most Reverend Michael Neary, KC*HS, Archbishop Emeritus of Tuam during the Gala Dinner in the Knock House Hotel on Friday 27th January 2023 following the celebration of Holy Mass in the Apparition Chapel at the International Eucharistic & Marian Shrine, Knock, County Mayo on the occasion of the Lieutenancy’s Annual Marian Pilgrimage.
Fr. Francis is the 13th Lieutenancy of Ireland recipient of this rarely issued award.