Drew Ferguson: “I rise today to honor our guest chaplain, Don Aldo Brunacci. A canon of the Cathedral of San Rufino in Assisi, Italy…”

“I rise today to honor our guest chaplain, Don Aldo Brunacci. A canon of the Cathedral of San Rufino in Assisi, Italy, Don Aldo Brunacci is being honored with the National Gaudete Medal. It is presented to a community leader who represents the life and teaching of St. Francis of Assisi. Don Aldo embodies the spirit of service and joy that St. Francis taught. His life has exhibited the words engraved in the medal: "For service to God and humanity in the Franciscan spirit of compassion and sacrifice, faith and humility, hope and joy." In January 2003, he was presented with the Order for Merit of the Italian Republic, awarded by President Carlo Azeglio Ciampi of Italy, for his service in assisting hundreds of Jewish refugees during World War II. Currently, Don Aldo operates the Casa Papa Giovanni, a major retreat house in Assisi. St. Bonaventure's College is here in Washington today to honor Don Aldo with this prestigious award. He is not only a proud example to his community and his family, but also to his country and his faith.”