Father Simon Gore from Animate Youth Ministries reflects on the end-of-year awards for the Faith in Action programme and what they tell us about our young people.​

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The Archdiocese of Liverpool recently celebrated three joyful and grace filled days for this year’s Faith in Action Awards. 

Around 300 young people each day came together and the atmosphere across all three days was marked by pride, gratitude, and a sense of genuine hope as our young people were recognised for the ways they have lived out the Gospel in their schools, parishes, and communities. 

The award ceremonies were led by Archbishop John Sherrington and Bishop Tom Neylon, each offering words of encouragement that spoke directly to the heart of the programme: that faith is not simply something we hold, but something we do. Their presence was a powerful reminder that the Church sees, values, and celebrates the witness of its young people. 

We had schools in attendance from all over the archdiocese, with young people ranging from Year 6 all the way through to Year 11. There were also some Sixth Form helpers alongside our team of volunteers who came to ensure the days ran smoothly – a big thanks to them! The result was a real sense of diocesan togetherness. 

After the formal presentations, the celebrations continued with a lively ‘fun day’, giving the young people time to relax and enjoy being together. The garden was filled with colour and laughter as inflatables, arcade games, and other activities brought out plenty of friendly competition. It was a simple but joyful way of marking the end of a year of service, prayer and reflection, and a way for the archdiocese to thank the young people for their service. 

This year’s celebrations carried a particular poignancy as we marked the final Faith in Action Awards under the leadership of Lauren Lynch, who has guided the programme for the past 10 years. Her dedication has shaped the award into a cornerstone of youth ministry in the archdiocese, helping thousands of young people discover how their gifts can build up the Church and transform their communities. Lauren’s commitment, creativity, and pastoral care have left a lasting legacy, and her contribution was warmly acknowledged. She even received her own unique plaque from Bishop Tom with all four award level badges! 

Across all the days, what stood out most was that sense of hope. These young people – 300 each day and another 1,000 who could not make the awards ceremonies – represent a Church that is alive, outward looking, and rooted in service. Their projects and reflections show that faith continues to inspire compassionate service and courageous witness. 

As the archdiocese looks ahead, we do so with gratitude for everyone who supports our young people. We also celebrate those who received their awards and look to the future with confidence that the seeds planted through Faith in Action will continue to bear fruit.