Thirteen young people from across the Diocese of Cork and Ross were presented with their Gold Pope ... read more
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Pope John Paul II Award Launched in the Diocese of Kerry
Published
On Saturday 18 April 2026, the Diocese of Kerry officially launched the Pope John Paul II Award ... read more
School Resources for Season of Creation 2025
Published
The Season of Creation 2025 offers a timely opportunity for schools and youth groups to guide young people in prayer, reflection and hope-filled action as they journey into the new academic ... 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.






