veneration

VENERA'TION, n. [L. veneratio.]

The highest degree of respect and reverence; respect mingled with some degree of awe; a feeling or sentiment excited by the dignity and superiority of a person, or by the sacredness of his character, and with regard to place, by its consecration to sacred services.

We find a secret awe and veneration for one who moves above us in a regular and illustrious course of virtue.