Mags GarganAfter a successful six months, the Pope John Paul II Award pilot programme in the Diocese of Waterford & Lismore held a gathering of 124 students and staff in the Majestic Hotel, Tramore recently.
The award was one of the last initiatives introduced by Bishop William Lee before his retirement last October, and encourages young people to get involved in their community and parish.
The retreat style day allowed the students to get to know each other and make new friends, but it was also a day of prayerful reflection of how the award is going and to make any suggestions to improve the award.
The four schools and parishes involved in the pilot scheme are C.B.S Tramore, Stella Maris, Tramore, Coláiste Dún Lascaigh, Cahir and Blackwater School in Lismore & Cappoquin parishes.
Diocesan coordinator, Fr Michael Toomey, said he was “astounded” at the enthusiasm and commitment of the students. “When people ask me – ‘where are the young people in our church?’ I can now say that they are just outside the door and waiting to be invited in!”