Mags GarganThe Diocese of Ardagh and Clonmacnois celebrated its first Pope John Paul II Awards ceremony in Temperance Hall, Longford.
This event was organised to celebrate the gifts and talents of 46 young people who were to collect the Pope John Paul II Awards for their role in their parishes, communities and schools.
The guest speaker was Paul Keogh from Elation Ministry who encouraged the young people to stay involved in their parishes and communities, and he shared about the importance of faith and how it can create hope for our future.
Bishop Francis Duffy, Ardagh and Clonmacnois, said he was delighted to present the medals and congratulated all the young people on their numerous achievements.
Barney Burns, Supreme Knight of the Order of the Knights of St Columbanus, shared that, since the beginning of the awards in Derry six years ago; more than 12,000 young people have received Pope John Paul II Awards
Young people aged 16-18 are invited to participate in this year’s award.
See www.popejohnpauliiaward.com and click on Ardagh and Clonmacnois.