Pupils receive Pope John Paul II award

Work that both Jennifer and Donard were involved in included cleaning the church, offertory procession, reading at mass, serving tea/coffee and cakes at events in the local parish hall and selling ballot tickets for parish draws.

Both pupils also helped out in local primary schools where they worked and encouraged younger children to develop their skills.

Jennifer explained how she first heard about the award.

She said: “I first heard about the opportunity to take part in the award within my school environment. My Religion teacher informed me of the details and the commitment involved.

“My teacher supported me in the decision of what level of the award I should take. As there are three different options, I chose Gold.

“For this award it required me to take part in Parish involvements for one hour per week for 20 weeks and Social awareness involvement for one hour per week for 20 weeks.”

Donard said: “The experience was very enjoyable as not only did I learn more about my faith but I made many new friends.

“I would highly recommend for other pupils to take part in this award as you meet many new people and you get to feel a sense of happiness when you know you have done something good for someone else.”

Both Jennifer and Donard now look forward to the Millennium Award which will take place in March of 2016.