Far North couple join select group

Former Kaitaia couple Jack and Vera Katavich, now living in Whangarei, have been recognised by Pope Francis for their service to the Catholic Church.

The couple will receive Bene Merenti medals, and a framed award, by Bishop of Auckland Patrick Dunn, at St Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Whangarei at 10.30am on Sunday. It is understood that they will be only the 10th and 11th New Zealanders to receive the medal, first awarded by Pope Pius VI (1775-99) to recognise military merit, and since 1925 awarded to recognise service to the church.

Jack (85) and Vera (79) were born to Catholic migrants of Dalmatian descent who settled in the Far North before in the early 20th century. They have been deeply involved in parish life throughout their years together.

A spokeswoman for the Auckland diocese, Lyndsay Freer, said the couple had undertaken extensive fundraising for the Kaitaia parish, and were very generous with personal financial contributions to the church.

"They have offered unfailing hospitality to the priests and members of the religious orders who have worked in their parish over many years," she said. "Their home has been a second home for priests appointed to that parish."

They had also been kind mentors to ageing Sisters of Mercy who worked in pastoral care in the parish, were involved in the parish liturgies and behind-the-scenes matters of parish administration, while Mrs Katavich was also involved with the spiritual welfare and visitation of Catholics at Switzer Residential Care.

"Their contribution to the church and to community life has been enormous, and is being recognised by the award of medals from Pope Francis to acknowledge their service to the church and the appreciation of the church community," Mrs Freer added.

The couple, who moved to Whangarei after Mrs Katavich suffered a stroke more than two years ago, were taken by surprise. They had no idea who nominated them - "I must have been a good girl; this has come out of the blue," Mrs Katavich said - but it was an honour they were delighted to accept.