On May 30, Bishop Feehan High School recognized the Most Reverend Edgar Moreira da Cunha, S.D.V. as the recipient of the 2024 Patricia M. Harrington, RSM Hero of Catholic Education Award during its graduation ceremony.
Pope Francis appointed Bishop da Cunha to be the Eighth Bishop of Fall River on July 3, 2014. As the leader of the Fall River Diocesan Church, he shepherds a community of faith of approximately 274,000 persons who worship in 78 parishes throughout Southeastern Massachusetts, Cape Cod and the Islands.
“The Sister Pat award is Feehan’s most distinguished honor,” Feehan President Tim Sullivan noted. “Sr. Pat was the living heart of Feehan and dedicated her life to Catholic schools and her students. Our honorees embody the ideals that have allowed Catholic schools to thrive for decades. Bishop da Cunha has provided Feehan with steadfast support for the best practices that allow schools like ours to thrive for the long term.”
The Patricia M. Harrington, RSM Hero of Catholic Education Award was established by Bishop Feehan High School in 2017 to honor a champion of Catholic education who makes significant contributions in service of Catholic schools and the Church. Sister Pat — who passed away in 2015 — was a legendary figure in the Feehan community; her example of faith, love and mercy set a standard at Feehan for nearly 40 years and will be remembered always. Sister Pat herself (posthumously) was the first recipient of the award.
“This summer marks 10 years since Pope Francis appointed Bishop Da Cunha as the 8th Bishop of Fall River,” said Sullivan. “In that time, the Bishop has continually focused on strengthening all of the Catholic schools in his diocese. He was instrumental in allowing Feehan to establish a new governance model, trusting Feehan leaders to care for our school. His trust in us is a blessing and has made Feehan stronger.”