Thirteen young people from across the Diocese of Cork and Ross were presented with their Gold Pope John Paul II Award Medals during two special diocesan celebrations held alongside the visit of the Relics of St Carlo Acutis.
The presentations took place during Masses celebrated by Bishop Fintan Gavin in the diocesan cathedrals on Friday 29 May and Saturday 30 May 2026. The first Mass was celebrated in St Patrick’s Cathedral, Skibbereen, while the second took place in the Cathedral of St Mary and St Anne, Cork City.
The Gold Award is the highest level of the Pope John Paul II Award and recognises young people who have given significant commitment to parish life, social awareness initiatives and service within their local communities.
Award recipients came from three schools across the Diocese:
- Skibbereen Community School – 4 candidates from Castlehaven Parish
- Sacred Heart Secondary School, Clonakilty – 5 candidates from Clonakilty, Timoleague and Ahiohill Parishes
- Presentation Secondary School, Ballyphehane – 4 candidates from Ballyphehane, Togher and The Lough Parishes
The presence of the Relics of St Carlo Acutis made the occasion particularly memorable. Large congregations gathered in both cathedrals to welcome the relics of the young Italian saint, whose witness of faith, love of the Eucharist and use of modern technology to share the Gospel continues to inspire young people throughout the world.
Presenting the medals during these special celebrations highlighted the connection between the example of St Carlo Acutis and the commitment shown by the young people receiving their Gold Awards. Through their involvement in parish life, service and faith formation, the recipients have demonstrated a willingness to place their gifts at the service of others and to live out their faith in practical ways.
The Diocese of Cork and Ross congratulates all thirteen Gold Award recipients and thanks their families, parish communities, schools and coordinators who have supported them throughout their Award journey.
The award presentations, set against the backdrop of the visit of the Relics of St Carlo Acutis, provided a fitting celebration of faith, service and hope, and a reminder of the important contribution young people continue to make to the life of the Church.
Congratulations to all the Gold Pope John Paul II Award recipients on this significant achievement.
