1988 Lesotho Papal Visit Medallion – Pope John Paul II & Father Joseph Gerard – Dual-Sided Commemora

📦 Item Description:

Celebrate a powerful moment in African Catholic history with this official 1988 commemorative medallion issued during the Papal visit of Pope John Paul II to Lesotho and the beatification of Father Joseph Gerard.

This single, gold-plated medallion features both figures and was issued as part of a historic spiritual event a papal declaration that canonized a man remembered as the Miracle Worker of Lesotho.

🪙 Medallion Features:

• 🔸 Obverse: Pope John Paul II, radiant blessing pose, marked Lesotho Papal Visit 1988

• 🔸 Reverse: Father Joseph Gerard, inscribed Beatification

• 🔸 Material: Gold-plated base metal (likely brass or bronze)

• 🔸 Diameter: Approx. 3840 mm

• 🔸 Issue Date: 15 September 1988

• 🔸 Packaging: Original full-colour fold-out folder with biographical panels in English

🕊 Historical & Spiritual Significance:

• 🧎 Father Joseph Gerard was a French missionary who served in Lesotho for over 60 years, known as the Apostle of the Basotho.

• Pope John Paul II beatified him in 1988, a major moment for the Catholic Church in Africa.

• This is one of the few official commemorative medallions marking a Papal visit to Africa.

• Dual-sided design makes it ideal for display, gifting, or religious devotion.

💼 Condition:

Excellent bright detail, no major wear
Includes original booklet and display sleeve
Rare collectors edition not mass produced or reissued

🎯 Perfect For:

• Catholic collectors

• Papal memorabilia enthusiasts

• Lesotho historical items

• Gift for spiritual milestones or church archives