The recent Year 8 Faith in Action Bronze Award session was held in Herringthorpe, Rotherham, and brought together young people, across the Hallam Catholic schools for an uplifting day, together with their Chaplains and Sue McDonald (Hallam youth director).
The day began with a 10am Mass at the Immaculate Conception Church, celebrated by Fr Des. Our young people took an active and confident role in the liturgy, leading the readings, preparing the Offertory, and taking charge of the hymn singing. One student from All Saints’ School sang the Psalm beautifully, with everyone joining in the response. It was a wonderful and prayerful occasion, made even more special by the presence of local parishioners who joined us for the celebration.
Following Mass, everyone gathered in the church hall for refreshments, where parishioners continued to spend time with the group. We were also joined by a representative from CAFOD, who gave a short talk about the charity’s work. This was a valuable opportunity to capture the young people’s attention and encourage them to think about how they might become involved with CAFOD in the future.
After this, Fr Des spoke to the students about the Faith in Action Award, inviting them to share the activities and events they had already taken part in. The young people spoke enthusiastically about their experiences before being given the chance to ask Fr Des anything they wished. There were lots of thoughtful (and curious!) questions, all of which Fr Des answered with good humour and wisdom.
The day concluded at St Bernard’s School, where everyone shared lunch together. This time allowed students from different schools to chat, build friendships, and strengthen the sense of community between them.
Overall, it was a joyful and faithfilled day, reminding us that the Faith in Action Award brings young people together through shared experiences, helping them to grow in confidence and understanding. Always with God at the centre.
God Bless.
Suzanne
Chaplain