Our founder, Rev. William J. Watters, S.J., has been selected to receive the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice, a distinguished papal honor bestowed by Pope Leo XIV in recognition of extraordinary service to the Church.
For decades, Fr. Watters has devoted his life to faith, education, and the young people of Baltimore. His vision led to the founding of St. Ignatius Loyola Academy, Cristo Rey Jesuit High School, and The Loyola School, creating opportunities for thousands of children and young people to learn, grow, and discover what is possible for their lives.
Those of us at The Loyola School have the particular privilege of seeing his vision continue to unfold each day. It is there when our students walk through our doors each morning, when teachers encourage them to discover new possibilities, and when families entrust us with their children’s education and care.
On Saturday, September 12, during a special 10:00am-11:15am Solemn Ceremony at the Basilica of the Assumption at 409 Cathedral Street, Archbishop William E. Lori will bestow Papal Honors on behalf of Pope Leo XIV upon a number of awardees, including Fr. Watters, for their service to the Church. The celebration is open to the public.
I hope you will join me and the entire Loyola School community in congratulating Fr. Watters on this extraordinary and well-deserved recognition. We are profoundly grateful for his faith, his vision, and his unwavering belief in the potential of every young person.
We also extend our congratulations to all 21 individuals receiving papal honors for their exceptional service to the Church and our community.