The Very Rev. Dean Kenny Hall and Monsignor Peter O’Reilly were the recipients of special awards from Rotary Club of Enniskillen, which recently held a major social event at Colebrooke House, hosted by Viscount and Viscountess Brookeborough.

Dean Hall and Monsignor O’Reilly were each awarded a Paul Harris Award – the highest award that can be presented by Rotary International.

Together, they have presented a message of reconciliation, tolerance and respect for all to follow in a divided society.

The most public such message came in June, 2012, when the late Queen Elizabeth II visited Enniskillen and symbolically walked across the road from St. Macartan’s Cathedral to St. Michael’s Church.

Both clergy subsequently visited Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle, and had a private audience with Her Majesty.

The citation for Dean Hall continued by referring to his work as chaplain in the South West Acute Hospital.

His dedication to this role was recognised along with Monsignor O’Reilly by the Western Health and Social Care Trust in 2022/23.

Dean Hall is well known for his various community activities and his energetic support of many charities.

In sit-outs in December, 2022 and 2023, he helped raise £35,000 for various charities.

To recognise his role as an encourager, a man who brings with him God’s love, and a message of reconciliation, tolerance and respect, he was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow.

The citation for Monsignor O’Reilly also referred to his commitment to cross-community work.

He regularly meets with diocesan clergy of all denominations, serves as a Hospital Chaplain, and is involved in joint marriage ceremonies, some of which take place in the Church of Ireland.

Additionally, he is a strong advocate for interdenominational dialogue, frequently organising meetings with final year students from all schools to discuss faith and unity.

Monsignor O’Reilly’s dedication extends beyond his clerical duties. He is well known for his involvement in community activities and charitable causes, often seen participating in events that benefit the wider community.

To recognise his unwavering dedication to faith, education and his role in promoting reconciliation, tolerance and respect, he was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow.

At the end of the evening there was a further surprise with the award of a third Paul Harris Fellow to the host – Viscount Brookeborough himself.

He has represented Co. Fermanagh and Northern Ireland remarkably well and has been an outstanding Ambassador throughout his life in various roles.

He has also been involved with numerous charities, and so often this work is unseen.

In 2014, he was awarded the Knight of the Order of St. John (KStJ); in 2018 he was awarded a Knight Companion of the Order of the Garter (KG); and Rotary was delighted to award the third Viscount Brookeborough a Paul Harris Fellow to recognise his deep contribution to the people of Co. Fermanagh and beyond.