The apostolic administrator of the Algarve, D. Manuel Quintas, received the Key of Honour of the city of Faro in a ceremony held on September 7, during Municipality Day, at the Cultural and Innovation Centre of Bordeira, in Santa Bárbara de Nexe. The distinction was delivered by the president of the municipality, António Miguel Pina, accompanied by the president of the Municipal Assembly, Macário Correia.
D. Manuel Quintas spent 25 years in the Algarve region as bishop of this Diocese. He wrote the letter of resignation to the Pope, sent via the nunciature, on August 27, 2024, when he turned 75, the age limit set by Canon Law for the exercise of this ministry.
The Municipality of Faro distinguished the life journey and work of D. Manuel Quintas, highlighting his dedication to the public cause, social solidarity and the preservation of the historical and cultural heritage of the city. Throughout his episcopate, the institutional ties between the Diocese of the Algarve and the Municipality were strengthened, resulting in projects to support the most vulnerable citizens and the valorization of the social fabric of Faro.
The Key of Honour is intended to honour individuals or organizations that, through their recognized merit, prestige or contributions to the community, deserve this elevated public recognition. The Pope appointed D. Vitorino Soares as the new bishop of the Algarve on July 14, who will take canonical possession on September 19 at the cathedral of Faro.
