Former national archivist Jacques van Rensch from Gronsveld was appointed Knight in the Order of Saint Sylvester by Pope Francis on Wednesday evening. He received the award for his great commitment to the religious heritage in Limburg.
During a meeting in the Basilica of Saint Servatius in Maastricht, Van Rensch received his knighthood.
Archivist
Van Rensch has been active as an archivist for both ecclesiastical and civil archives for more than 40 years. He worked for the municipalities of Maastricht and Thorn, and as a state archivist. He has also been a member of the archive committee of the Diocese of Roermond for many years, of which he is one of the co-founders.
High Papal Distinction
The Knighthood of Saint Sylvester is one of the higher papal honours. The order was established in 1841 by Pope Gregory XVI and is awarded to lay people who have made a special contribution to the Catholic Church.
Basilica of Saint Servatius
Van Rensch has made it his life’s work to record the history of the Catholic Church in Limburg and to secure it for future generations. He was involved in the Treasury of the Basilica of St. Servatius and is currently active as a parish volunteer in his hometown of Gronsveld.
Pass on knowledge
By giving archive management courses, Van Rensch passes on his knowledge and experience to parish volunteers. He is also the author of several publications on the history of the Catholic Church.