Archdiocese of Bombay Confers Papal Medals on Three Eminent Individuals for Outstanding Service

Mumbai, January 29, 2026 – In a solemn ceremony held at Archbishop's House in Colaba, the Archdiocese of Bombay honoured three distinguished members of the Catholic community with prestigious Papal Medals, recognizing their lifelong contributions to healthcare, social welfare, and community leadership. The event, presided over by Oswald Cardinal Gracias, underscored the Church's appreciation for individuals who embody faith through service to humanity.

The program commenced with a prayer service led by Archbishop John, setting a reflective tone for the gathering of clergy, family members, and community leaders. Nominations for these honours are typically submitted by bishops or Vatican officials and approved by the Pope, representing a personal distinction rather than a hereditary order. Notable past recipients include philanthropists, diplomats, and professionals dedicated to the Church's global mission.

Dr. Armida Fernandez: Pioneer in Neonatal Care and Breastfeeding Advocacy

Dr. Armida Fernandez, a renowned neonatologist hailing from Karnataka, was conferred the title of Lady of the Order of Pope St. Sylvester. As the founder of Asia's first human milk bank at Sion Hospital in 1989, Dr. Fernandez has revolutionized newborn care in India. Her groundbreaking work at Lokmanya Tilak Municipal General (LTMG) Hospital, where she served as Professor and Head of Neonatology, and later as Dean, focused on enhancing survival rates for premature infants through breastfeeding promotion.

A graduate of MBBS from Hubli and postgraduate from KEM Hospital, Mumbai, Dr. Fernandez's research demonstrated the life-saving benefits of breast milk, inspiring national initiatives. With UNICEF support, she developed educational resources like the Breastfeeding Manual and videos, training healthcare professionals across Maharashtra and beyond. She also spearheaded the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative and the Mother, Infant, and Young Child Nutrition (MIYCN) Programme.

In 1999, Dr. Fernandez established the Society for Nutrition, Education and Health Action (SNEHA), an urban health NGO that empowers women and children in slums, reaching over one million people in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Jharkhand. Her past roles include President of the National Neonatology Forum, Medical Director at Holy Family Hospital, Bandra, and founder of the Romila Palliative Care Centre and Connect & Care for homebound seniors.

Oswald Cardinal Gracias presented the medal on behalf of the Vatican, praising Dr. Fernandez's unwavering commitment to the vulnerable as a true reflection of Christian compassion.

Dr. Lucito D'Souza: Champion of Palliative Care and Oncology

Dr. Lucito D'Souza, a distinguished surgical oncologist with over a decade of experience, received the title of Knight of the Order of Saint Gregory the Great. Associated with St. Elizabeth Hospital, Dr. D'Souza is celebrated for introducing palliative care to India through the founding of Shanti Avedna Sadan centers in Mumbai, Goa, and Delhi. These facilities provide dignified end-of-life care for terminally ill cancer patients, embodying his ethos of empathy and holistic healing.

Holding an MBBS and MS in General Surgery, Dr. D'Souza specializes in managing a wide range of cancers using advanced treatments like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormone therapy. His contributions to research and his publications have advanced surgical oncology, while his patient-centered approach has earned him acclaim for accurate diagnoses and compassionate care.

Cardinal Gracias conferred the honour, highlighting Dr. D'Souza's life of dedication to those facing terminal illness as an inspiring model of service rooted in faith.

Mr. Roger C.B. Pereira: Visionary in Communications and Community Building

Mr. Roger C.B. Pereira, a trailblazer in Indian advertising and public relations with more than five decades of influence, was also awarded a Papal Medal for his exemplary contributions to society and the Catholic community. Beginning his career at JWT and leading Shilpi Advertising, Mr. Pereira founded Roger Pereira Communications in the 1980s—encouraged by JRD Tata—which became a leading PR firm affiliated with global giants like Burson-Marsteller and Edelman.

As a key architect of the industry, he co-founded the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) and the India chapter of the International Advertising Association, while presiding over major advertising bodies. His work with brands such as Air India and Xerox extended to social campaigns on population control and health.

Mr. Pereira is also the vice-chairman of Mumbai First (formerly Bombay First), a non-profit focused on urban development and quality-of-life improvements through public-private partnerships. Deeply involved in the Catholic community, he serves as a trustee of Take Charge; a mentorship program fostering excellence among Catholic youth, with over 820 mentor-mentee pairs formed. At the Catholic Gymkhana and Bandra Gymkhana, he organizes events, resolves disputes, and promotes sports, spiritual activities, and cultural preservation to strengthen communal ties.

Cardinal Gracias bestowed the medal, commending Mr. Pereira's blend of professional innovation and faith-driven service as a beacon for future generations.

The ceremony concluded with the singing of the national anthem, symbolizing the recipients' contributions to both Church and country. These Papal Medals affirm the Archdiocese of Bombay's role in celebrating individuals who advance the Gospel through action, inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.

For further information, contact the Archdiocese of Bombay Communications Office at Archbishop's House, Colaba, Mumbai.