On Sunday 20 November 2016, the feast of Christ the King, 46 Transition Year Students from three secondary schools in Clonmel, Co. Tipperary were commissioned during Mass into the Pope John Paul II Award for parishes across the town.
The Award is established in the Diocese of Waterford and Lismore for four years
Launching the Award for the first year in Clonmel, the Award has been running successfully across the Diocese of Waterford and Lismore for four years. It is a way of encouraging our young people to get involved in their community and parish, and as part of our commitment to enhancing the lives of our young people on their journey through faith. This Award, which has been running very successfully across the country for the last ten years has already seen over 500 students receive the Gold Award in Cahir, Tramore, Lismore and parts of Waterford City. Many students also continue to help in their parishes and community by achieving the Papal Cross Award into 5th and 6th Year.
At the Mass, Fr Michael Toomey paid tribute to all the students enrolling, saying they have already committed themselves to working in their schools and parishes and have done a huge amount of work in their community. “Some of the students could not be with us here today, as they are already committed to serving in their parishes in one of many ministries they are part of” he said. “Having 46 students enrol for the first year of this Award in Clonmel is a wonderful number”.
“Taking part in this award will help these young people reflect on their relationship with God, where Christ is in the everyday bits and pieces of their lives” said Fr Michel. “The Award will show them ways in which they can they make Him present among their peers, friends and family. It is a great time for these young people to step out as true witnesses to their faith by belong their parish and community in so many ways.”
Fr Michael also thanked the parents, schools and principals for their encouragement and support of the Award.
Over the coming weeks, many of the students will become more active in the life of their local parishes in and around the town, and all students hope to achieve the Award by May. Fr Michael wished them all the very best and thanks the students for their enthusiasm and commitment so far.
Get involved in the Award
Award enrolment forms and resources can be found at: www.thepopejohnpauliiaward.com/waterford-and-lismore or contact the Award leader in each school.