Castledermot student awarded prestigious Papal Cross

SARAH Doyle of Coláiste Lorcáin, Castledermot, was presented with the prestigious Papal Cross Award during a ceremony in the Church of the Assumption recently. The Papal Cross is the highest accolade within the Pope John Paul II Award programme, which encourages young people to engage actively in their parish and community.

Sarah’s commitment to her parish began in fifth class in primary school when she was an altar server and assisted with church duties—a tradition she continues to uphold alongside her grandparents, who serve as sacristans. Guided by teacher Marie Murphy, Sarah progressed through the John Paul II Award levels, earning a gold medal in transition year before achieving the Papal Cross for her continued service.

Now in leaving cert year, Sarah is from Coolane, Castledermot and is the daughter of Clare and Robert Doyle.

Several fifth year students also received gold, silver and bronze John Paul II Awards on the day. Sarah expressed gratitude to Ms Murphy and Fr Tom Kennedy for their support. Although she has now stepped back from altar serving to focus on her leaving certificate exams, Sarah will remain involved in parish life as a reader and eucharistic minister.

Sarah also contributed to the school’s carol service by reading in the event. Deputy Principal Aodhagán O’Súilleabháin said: “Congratulations to Sarah on her outstanding achievement and to our wonderful fifth year students who received their awards. Thanks to Ms Murphy for the guidance she provided to the students throughout the process.”