Jennie Korsmo receives papal award following 25 years of service to the Diocese

Jennie Korsmo, Marriage Preparation Coordinator and Office of Catholic Education and Formation (CEF), received the Benemerenti medal on June 7 during a casual gathering at the Pastoral Center in Fargo. The Benemerenti is a medal awarded by the Pope to members of the clergy and laity for service to the Catholic Church. “Benemerenti” literally translates to “good merit.”

Bishop John Folda nominated Jennie for the award following her 25 years of service to the Diocese of Fargo.

“I felt that she should be recognized for her service to the Church, especially for her work in support of marriage and families. The Benemerenti award is granted by the Holy Father to lay members of the Church in recognition for their exceptional service to Christ and his Church. We petitioned the Holy Father through the apostolic nuncio, and he granted this well-deserved recognition to Jennie.”

The Benemerenti depicts the image of Christ on a gold Greek cross. The Savior, depicted in radiant splendor, has his hand raised in blessing. On the left is the tiara and crossed keys symbol of the papacy. On the right is the coat of arms of Pope Francis. On the reverse is the word “benemerenti.” The medal is suspended from a ribbon of the papal colors, yellow and white.

Jennie works in the Marriage and Family Life Office and coordinates marriage preparation activities and organizes events such as the Redeemed Conferences and other retreats. When she first started working at the Diocese in 1997, she worked in the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry Office.

“I’m honored to receive this recognition and blessed to work for the Diocese for over 25 years now in a variety of roles,” said Jennie. “I work with great people and love serving the wonderful people of Eastern North Dakota. It has been a blessing for me to be able to work on all these events that help people encounter Jesus!”