The Muiredach Cross Faith Award hopes to address the self centered individualistic approach of modern day society by enabling the pupils to focus on the spirit or ethos of their school, their families,clubs and local communities.Inspired by the success of the Pope John Paul II Award we aimed to create an award similar in nature to the John Paul but one that would cater instead for years 11 and 12 and be open to all schools and their pupils.These days individual success and hitting personalised targets often at the expense of others, particularly the more vulnerable, is the dominant culture in our world much in evidence in our schools,our clubs and local communities. This is often carried on into adulthood resulting in our Celtic Tiger’s and subsequent credit crunch.

The Muiredach Cross will be a hands on user friendly award open to all who wish to do it by whatever means they wish. It will recognise and celebrate much of “The Good” already being done in our schools and Parishes and in some cases encourage that little bit more.

Successful participants in the MUIREDACH CROSS AWARD for Faith Development Achievement will receive a replica of the famous Celtic Cross at Monsterboice known as the Muiredach Cross. Through the Award we will recal the ministry of two our Patron Saints, St Patrick and St Brigid and in so doing hope to inspire our Young people (4th and 5th Year students in N.Ireland, Transition Year in the South of Ireland.) to participate in the programme and complete the assignments and practical projects designed to give them firsthand experience of Christian faith in action in our Catholic communities.

In starting our Muiredach Award we pray that our saints and holy people will intercede with God on behalf of all young people who follow in their footsteps with a commitment and hunger to know God our Father and Jesus His only Son. Through the work of the Holy Spirit may they grow in wisdom and faith, and witness to God’s love in the time and practical work they undertake as part of this project.

It is hoped that many parishes and schools will participate in what promises to be another excellent faith development award for our young people. This award aims to give our Youth (4th and 5th year students) the opportunity to demonstrate their faith in action by becoming involved in what will primarily be school centred faith projects designed to enhance the ethos and faith cIt is hoped that all parishes and schools will participate in what promises to be another excellent faith development award for our young people. This award aims to give our Youth (4th and 5th year students) the opportunity to demonstrate their faith in action by becoming involved in what will primarily be school centred faith projects designed to enhance the ethos and faith culture of the school community.This award is being pioneered by the Armagh Diocesan Youth Ministry team and already terrific interest is being shown by our schools which is most encouraging.

The Muiredach Cross above is situated in the remains of the old monastery at Monsterboice just north of Drogheda. One of Irelands remaining magnificent  high crosses it is well worth a visit.