Message from the Cardinal, Archbishop of Armagh

"Do not let people disregard you because you are young, but be an example to all the believers in the way you speak and behave, and in your love, your faith and your purity." 1 Timothy 4:12

These words of encouragement were written by St Paul to Timothy as he led the church in Ephesus. They are included in the front of the Armagh Diocesan Youth Commission (ADYC) Strategic Plan 2007-2010 and seem fitting for the introduction of the Pope John Paul II Awards to the Archdiocese of Armagh.

Life as a Catholic today presents many challenges for young people within their peer groups and their Church community. Building friendships with peers like-minded in their faith and playing an active part in parish and community serves to strengthen the young people of our Church. The Pope John Paul II Award is an excellent way to offer the structure and support for young people to do this.

Preparing a place for young people in our parish communities is never easy. There have been many consultations throughout the diocese for the Diocesan Pastoral Plan, the ADYC Strategic Plan and more recently as we form our new Pastoral Areas. It is clear through these consultations that parishes have a strong desire to involve our young people in the life of the church. This takes commitment and in some cases courage to change our way of doing things.

I welcome Pope John Paul II Awards to the Archdiocese of Armagh and look forward to meeting the young people who inspired by Pope John Paul II, answer the call of their baptism to be a part of the Church of today and tomorrow.

+ Cardinal Seán Brady
Archbishop of Armagh

Award Top-Ups

The Papal Cross Award

The Gold Award

The Silver Award

The Bronze Award

Pdf of the Award Handbook - Armagh

Pdf of the Application Form

Pdf of the Record Cards

Record Card Guidelines

Pdf of the Presentation Guidelines

Pdf of the Presentation Template