By Madalaine Elhabbal
Washington, D.C. Newsroom, Jan 13, 2025 / 15:20 pm
Exciting news for devout Catholics and pro-life advocates as Congressman Chris Smith is set to be honored at this year’s National Catholic Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C.
The distinguished New Jersey representative will be the recipient of the prestigious Christifideles Laici Award during the 20th National Catholic Prayer Breakfast scheduled for Feb. 28. Past recipients of this esteemed award include luminaries such as religious freedom champion Jimmy Lai, legal expert Helen M. Alvaré, policy maven Mary Rice Hasson, and former U.S. Attorney General William Barr.
The Christifideles Laici Award, established in 2019 by the National Catholic Prayer Breakfast, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the Church. The award, a bespoke piece by renowned artist Isaac Dell, is engraved with the words “In Honor and Gratitude for Fidelity to the Church, Exemplary Selfless and Steadfast Service in the Lord’s Vineyard.”
With an impressive 22 terms in the U.S. House of Representatives representing New Jersey’s 4th Congressional District, Smith is a member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and a dedicated advocate for victims of religious persecution and human trafficking.
Known for his unwavering support of the pro-life movement, Smith is confirmed as one of the speakers at this year’s March for Life alongside Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Live Action Founder Lila Rose.
In a recent interview with CNA following a Mass held in the U.S., Smith shared his thoughts and insights on various important issues.
