Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça receives Lisbon Medal of Honor

Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça has been awarded the Medal of Honor of the City of Lisbon. The distinction was presented by Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas during a ceremony at the Paços do Concelho, attended by former President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and various political and academic figures.

The award recognizes the Cardinal's work as an educator, his theological contributions, and his efforts toward human development. During his remarks, Tolentino de Mendonça emphasized the importance of urban spaces as centers of community, stating, “A city is the place of community, where we are together. The city refutes loneliness.”

When questioned regarding a potential visit to Portugal by Pope Leo XIV, the Cardinal noted the Pope's desire to travel but did not provide a definitive confirmation, suggesting that such announcements would come from Portuguese bishops or the Prefecture of the Pontifical Household. This follows an invitation extended by the President of Portugal for a potential visit in 2027 to mark the 110th anniversary of the Fátima apparitions.