By Ronald Anil Fernandes
Bengaluru, Feb 27: Nigel Fernandes, CEO of ATC Publishers and Arclight Global Pvt Ltd, was honoured with the papal title of Knight of the Order of St Sylvester, one of the highest awards given by the Catholic Church to laypeople. This recognition celebrates his 32 years of dedicated service to the Church and society. A special felicitation event was held at Ascension Church in Bengaluru, organised by Navajyothi Publications and his well-wishers, attended by bishops, priests, nuns, government officials, and laypersons.
Archbishop of Bengaluru Rev Dr Peter Machado expressed the pride of the Bengaluru archdiocese in Chevalier Nigel Fernandes. He praised Nigel’s humility, piety, and generosity in helping those in need, which have led to his success. The archbishop highlighted Nigel’s key achievements in publishing, including the New Living Translation (Catholic Edition), the English Standard Version (Catholic Edition), the Lectionary, and other Church-related publications. He also noted Nigel’s active role in various Church activities and associations.
Archbishop Emeritus Bernard Moras described the papal knighthood as a direct recognition from the Pope, who represents Jesus Christ, making it a reward straight from Jesus himself. He recalled his long association with ATC Publishers since 1964 when he as a priest visited their office in Mumbai. As the former archbishop of Bengaluru, he shared personal experiences working with Nigel and his publications.
During the event, both archbishops presented a citation honouring Nigel Fernandes and released a souvenir titled “Steward of Sacred Texts,” which details his life story.
In his response, Chevalier Nigel Fernandes compared his life to a chessboard. He said that although he is now a “knight” and his office is located near the bishop’s house, he would be helpless without the support of the “pawns” — referring to the many people who helped him. He thanked all the bishops, archbishops, cardinals, priests, nuns, and laypersons for his success.
Nigel specifically acknowledged the assistance from Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao, former archbishop Ignatius Pinto, biblical scholar Rev Dr Lucien Legrand, and CCBI deputy secretary general Fr Stephen Alathara. He emphasised that the award is not an endpoint but a call to greater commitment and responsibility.
The knighthood was formally conferred earlier at the 37th Plenary Assembly of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India in Bengaluru. It was presented by Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, the Apostolic Nuncio to India, in the presence of Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao, Cardinal Oswald Gracias, bishops, and office bearers of the CCBI.
At the felicitation, former KPSC member Ronald Anil Fernandes read a citation on Nigel’s life and achievements. Brilliant Printers CEO Peter Anil Rego read a message from Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah. Navajyothi Publications editor Ivan D’Costa welcomed the gathering, and AAA Advertising and Communications CEO Jaijo Joseph proposed the vote of thanks.
Before the ceremony, Archbishop Emeritus Bernard Moras concelebrated a holy mass with several other priests. Nigel’s spouse, Brenda Fernandes, and son, Kevin Joshua, were among those present at the event.