The Pope John Paul II Award

St. Mary’s Secondary School has offered Pope John Paul II awards since 2017. The students work in conjunction with their local Parish. The award is offered to Transition Year students and the number of students participating has grown significantly each year since it began. Over the years our students have worked very hard, and we have had students receiving Bronze, Silver Gold, and even Papal awards.

What is the JP II Award?

The Pope John Paul II Award, established in honor of the late Pope John Paul II, celebrates his unwavering faith in young people. Launched on November 7, 2006, by His Excellency Most Rev Dr Giuseppe Lazzarotto, the Papal Nuncio to Ireland, this initiative has been empowering young minds across Irish secondary schools.

Open to individuals aged 16 to 18, the Award is a non-competitive, inclusive, flexible, and voluntary faith achievement recognition. It encourages active participation within the Church, community, and society, fostering a deeper understanding of the Catholic Church’s teachings and its global impact.

This initiative aims to make young people more visible within their church, community, and society. By engaging in school, parish, and community activities, participants enhance their spiritual, physical, emotional, and social well-being. Beyond personal growth, participation showcases their dedication to tasks and goals, fostering a sense of accomplishment.

Who are the awards for?

The Pope John Paul II Award is for anyone between the ages of 16 and 18. The Award is run by the Diocese and is suitable for:

  • Students in Transition year and Fifth year
  • Students in full-time education who have completed Junior Certificate
  • Anyone between the age of 16 and 18, not in post-primary education

The Award is non-competitive, flexible, and voluntary and requires an ongoing commitment. Awards are earned by taking part in parish and social activities – 1 hour per week over 8, 14, or 20 weeks. There are 3 Awards – Gold, Silver & Bronze. Those who have completed the Gold Award have a further option of completing the Papal Cross Award.

Awards – Gold, Silver & Bronze

Awards are earned 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 and Bronze.

School Co-ordinators

Ms. R. McCann and Ms. G. Ní Hutáin are  the current facilitators of this Programme in St. Mary’s Secondary School.