On Sunday 2nd April, Palm Sunday, Bishop Fintan presented John Paul 11 Gold Medal Awards in St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Skibbereen
The recipients were Rachel Crowley (Skibbereen), Ciara Dennehy Castlehaven Parish), Molly Gregory Long (Skibbereen) and sisters Megan and Kassey Collins (Rath& The Islands Parish) represented by their mother Anne. James O’Connor from Douglas Parish was also awarded a Gold medal which he will receive it at a later date.
The journey for all recipients commenced a few months before the start of the Covid pandemic. Their efforts during this stressful time was truly exemplary, involving local community service to the elderly, helping out in St Patrick’s Cathedral, Rath and the Islands and Castlehaven Parishes by welcoming parishioners, cleaning and sanitising the pews after Mass, proclaiming the Word of God at Mass, visiting residents in retirement homes and hospitals whilst assisting staff, and contributing their time to charities, and other good works, working tirelessly throughout Covid.
The parishes involved are very proud of the recipients in that there are six Gold recipients from the Diocese of Cork and Ross this year.
Due to prior commitments the awards for Kassey and Megan were accepted by their mother, Mrs Anne Collins
Fr. John Heinhold Co-PP, Mrs. Anne Collins (mother of Kassey and Megan Collins), Molly Gregory Long, Rachel Crowley, Bishop Fintan & Ciara Dennehy 
Mrs. Anne Collins accepts the John Paul 11 Gold medals and certificates on behalf of her daughters, Kassey and Meghan
Ciara Dennehy accepts her award from Bishop Fintan
Molly Gregory Long receives her award
Rachel crowley accepts her award
Recipients with organisers Dolores Ruane and Jacinta Crowley
