On Thursday 16th November, 2017 at our Lady’s Basilica, Knock, Archbishop Michael Neary gathered to celebrate and recognise the voluntary contribution of over 500 teenagers to their parish communities at the annual presentation of the Pope John Paul II Award. Sacred Heart School was proud to be represented by 33 of our students.

Thirty one 5th Year students were awarded the Gold Medal and two Leaving Cert students, Katie Geraghty and Bridin Molloy, were awarded the Papal Cross for their efforts. They received their medal and certificate in recognition of so much work carried out by them in their school, parish and wider communities over the last year. They were involved in activities such as helping with the Shoebox Appeal, Peer for Peer Education, the Awakening concert, prayer services, bucket collections and many more. Through their experiences on this award programme, they were given an opportunity to go beyond themselves and their needs, and reach out to others.

Siobhan Bradley, Diocesan co-ordinator for the award invited all present at awards night, whether young or young at heart to not let the night be a once off, a distant memory or be forgotten. She asked that the spark that had been lit in all their lives, be it directly or indirectly, through this award be kept lit for many days and years to come. She said “Get, stay and be involved, there are so many opportunities in your local parishes and at diocesan level to keep our church moving forward in a true and vibrant direction – keep your eyes, ears and hearts open. You are an inspiration and a source of great hope to us all”.

Our girls are indeed a source of great hope and pride for our school. Warmest congratulations on your awards again.