In recognition of his invaluable contribution to events in the Philippines, Cardinal Jaime Sin has been named to receive honorary doctoral degrees from six American higher institutions of learning.
The university honors reflect the international acclaim the cardinal won for his role in the revolution that toppled former president Ferdinand Marcos.
Among the six, the degree offered by Yale University is notable because it will be given by the School of Divinity, a Protestant institution.
The first was presented April 8 in Manila by the Jesuit-run University of San Francisco. Jesuit Father John LoSchiavio, university president, was present.
In the citation, Cardinal Sin was described as "the courageous and articulate shepherd" and commanded for presenting "to a people in travail the model of Jesus Christ prince of Peace, and of the hope-filled teachings of the Church. Not since Gandhi had there been such a bold, pragmatic and sagacious commitment to non-violent protest in confrontation against brute power and cold steel."
Another conferment will take place May 18 at Stonehill College in North Easton, Massachusetts, to be followed the next day by a similar ceremony at Boston College, Boston.
Georgetown University, a Jesuit institution in Washington, honors Cardinal Sin with a doctorate May 25, and Yale University´s honorary doctorate will be presented May 26 in New Haven, Connecticutt.
Five days later, Seton Hall University in South Orange, New Jersey, will give Cardinal Sin an honorary doctor of laws degree.
END