The Pope John Paul II Award was created to commemorate the late Pope John Paul II who was so committed to young people and who had such belief and confidence in them. It was launched in Ireland in November 2006. The Award has been part of the story of Kildare & Leighlin Diocese for the past five years. In that time, close to one and a half thousand young people from the diocese have participated in this award programme. It enables participants to take an active part in the life of their Church, in the life of their community and society. It enables young people become more aware of the teaching and role of the Catholic Church in the world and to engage at a deep level with Christ. So often today we hear comments that suggest that young people are not part of our church community but this Award offers a way of making young people visible in their church, community & society. Over the past few weeks a new intake of students aged between 16 and 18 here in Newbridge have signed up to take part in the Award over the next 18 months. Over 80 young people are participating and they will be involved in various activities such as Faith Friends, the Amadeus Youth Group, the Taizé Mass, Share Food, to name but a few. Please encourage them and keep them and their leaders in your prayers.