CCL Board Member Receives Papal Award

The Couple to Couple League is proud to have an outstanding team of experts and professionals on our Board of Directors, and Dr. Lester Ruppersberger is no exception.

Although the Philadelphia-based OB/GYN is retired, he’s as involved in medical ministries, Catholic nonprofits and general philanthropy as ever. Earlier this month, Dr. Ruppersberger received a Benemerenti Medal from Archbishop Charles Chaput as recognition for his passionate work.

Dr. Ruppersberger’s wife, Elizabeth, also received a Benemerenti Medal at the same event for her many years teaching natural family planning with Lester and her many hours volunteering for area pro-life ministries, including her position as a board member at a separate nonprofit.

While the papal award was originally bestowed upon members of the Swiss Guard and Papal Army, it has since been expanded to honor deserving world civilians. The name Bene Merenti literally means “well deserving.”

Congratulations to the Ruppersbergers for this wonderful honor. We’re especially grateful to Dr. Ruppersberger for your passionate commitment to the Catholic medical community, and especially the time and energy you’ve poured into the Couple to Couple League!

— Forest (Hempen) Barnette
Marketing and Communications Associate