Cathríona Kelly, Parish Coordinator, Parish of Graiguecullen/Killeshin, Diocese of Kildare & Leighlin shares her experience as a leader with young people in her parish: ‘I’m just home from our ... read more
Explore our latest news, events, and inspiring stories!
Season of Creation 2024 Resources
Published
The Season of Creation is marked throughout the Christian world from 1 September (the World Day of ... read more
Introducing the Award for the first time?
Published
At the start of each academic year the Pope John Paul II Award will be introduced by Award Leaders ... read more
The Pope John Paul II Award
The Pope John Paul II Award is a faith achievement award for young people between the age of 16 and 18. It is non-competitive, inclusive, flexible and voluntary.
Young people achieve their Award by taking part in parish and social activities – 1 hour per week over 8, 14 or 20 weeks. There are 3 Award levels – Gold, Silver & Bronze. Those that have completed the Gold Award have a further option of completing the Papal Cross Award.
Over 20,000 young people, in 21 dioceses throughout Ireland and the UK have successfully completed the Pope John Paul II Award since it was created in 2006. Find out more...
Take an active part in the life of your Church
The Award enables participants to take an active part in the life of their Church - in the life of their community and society. It enables young people become more aware of the teaching and role of the Catholic Church in the world and to engage at a deep level with Christ. Find out more...Participate in school, parish and community activities
The Award is committed to helping young people enhance their spiritual, physical, emotional and social development through participation in school, parish and community activities. Find out more...Award Levels
There are 4 Awards - Gold, Silver, Bronze & Papal Cross
Each Award is completed over a 16 month period beginning at the start of the academic year.
Awards are earned by taking part in parish and social activities – 1 hour per week over 8, 14, 20 or 26 weeks.
Those that have completed the Gold Award have a further option of completing the Papal Cross Award.
Parish and Social Awareness activities
Examples of Parish and Social Awareness activities
Pope John Paul II Award participants can earn their Award by taking an active role in their parish and in activities which build social awareness.
We have published a useful list of parish and social awareness activities for Award Leaders and JP2 Award participants seeking ideas on how to help their parish and earn Award hours.