Marblehead Lawyer Named 2023 Peter J. Gomes Service Award Recipient

MARBLEHEAD, MA — A Marblehead lawyer who provides pro bono service to immigrants seeking residency and citizenship is among the five recipients of this year's Peter J. Gomes Service Award, awarded by U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton for contributions in the 6th Massachusetts District.

Kerry-Frances Bourne volunteers with Open Door Immigration Services to provide pro-bono services to immigrants on the North Shore.

Bourne is credited with never giving up on her clients, working tirelessly on their cases and citizenship applications. She has helped over 60 clients move through the green card application and the asylum system, aiding them in navigating the complexities of the legal process.

Moulton created the Peter A. Gomes Service Award in 2016.

The late Reverend Professor Gomes was Congressman Moulton's mentor and friend, ultimately inspiring him to sign up to serve in the Marines, and later, to run for Congress. The Reverend Professor served for nearly 40 years in the Memorial Church of Harvard University.

As a preacher, teacher, and leader, he influenced many with his wit and wisdom and, above all, with his commitment to service. This year's award honorees were chosen because of their demonstrated integrity, compassion, and commitment to the community which were characterized by Reverend Professor Gomes.

Congressman Moulton will host a public ceremony at 5:15 p.m. on Monday at the Cabot Middle School in Beverly to recognize Gomes and the other four Peter A. Gomes Service Award honorees.

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. X/Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)