Joseph Aquilante, a theology teacher at Bishop Shanahan, has been honored with the Benemerenti Medal, writes Lou Baldwin for CatholicPhilly.com.

The award was created in the 18th century by Pope Gregory XVI. At the time, it was a recognition of good conduct for members of the Swiss Guard and Papal Army who managed to go a minimum of five years without getting into trouble.

Today, the papal award has been expanded to recognize people of all professions and religious backgrounds who are doing good work, both in their communities and globally.

Aquilante, who has taught at Bishop Shanahan for two decades, currently serves as chair of the school’s Theology Department. His efforts have made the school’s pro-life group of students grow exponentially and become one of the largest in the archdiocese.

In addition to his work within the school, he also frequently works together with the archdiocesan Office for Life and Family on projects that help youth and young adults understand and defend their culture of life.

Read more about Joseph Aquilante at CatholicPhilly.com here.