Diocese of Cloyne

The Pope John Paul II Award enables participants to take an active part in the life of their Church - in the life of their community and society. It also 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.

In the course of my visits to post-primary Schools, I have discovered that there are two quotations which every student recognised instantly. The first is: Who said, “I have a dream”. The second is: "Young people of Ireland I love you". I had the privilege of being present in Galway on that memorable day when the young people of Ireland, three hundred thousand of them at least, exploded into clapping, cheering and singing. It went on for fifteen minutes before the Holy Father could finish his homily.

Less well remembered were his words, "I believe in youth, I believe in youth with all my heart". I think that it is most fitting that these Awards for young people who are outstanding in their participation in the life of the Church and this local parish and community should be called after Pope John Paul II.

I wholeheartedly welcome the establishment of these Awards in the Diocese of Cloyne and look forward to being present on Tuesday, 31st January when they are presented.

Pope John Paul II established the World Youth Day and his successor, Pope Benedict XVI, has kept up the tradition. Indeed, Pope Benedict is also on the wavelength of young people as evidenced in Cologne, Sydney and Madrid. I have seen for myself the very positive change in the lives of the young people who have been privileged to attend World Youth Day down the years. If I might allow a number of them to give their own accounts: Aoife: "I found the trip to Madrid amazing. A unique experience. It was great to see young people practising their faith without any inhibitions".

Seamus: "I have no difficulty in saying that World Youth Day was one of the most significant events in my life".

Eddie: "On arrival in Madrid, nothing could have prepared us for the heat and the sheer volume of the crowds. It was an eye-opening experience to let us see first hand how other nationalities profess their faith and devotion to the Catholic Church. It was a far cry from standing at the back of the church on a Sunday morning at home. A number thought the Prayer Vigil was memorable despite the storm and the rain. We slept under the stars on Saturday night while singing and dancing continued until the small hours. Confessions continued through the night and I personally had the wonderful experience of a deeply honest and moving Confession. It gave me a wonderful feeling of peace and reassurance".