Clogher don Óige

The master of ceremonies was Ciaran Stewart from Brookeboro, Co. Fermanagh, who travelled to WYD 2005 with Clogher don Óige. Speakers included Bishop Joseph Duffy; Fr. Martin O’Reilly (Clogher Diocesan Youth Director); Mairéad Murphy (Chairperson of Clogher don Óige); and two young people, Tony Sheridan and Gemma Corr, who also travelled to WYD 2005 with Clogher don Óige.

Fr Martin spoke about the importance of youth ministry, especially regarding ‘finding a voice for the young people in our society.’ He continued to speak about the fact that there are many people willing and able to speak for young people but it is important for young people to be presented with opportunities to speak for themselves. It is hoped that Clogher don Óige and indeed our society will foster within our young people the confidence and rejuvenate their interest in speaking for themselves.

Bishop Duffy welcomed the progress of youth ministry in the diocese of Clogher. He offered enthusiastic support to the focused work of Clogher don Óige and to all future youth ministry endeavours. He spoke with great delight about the launch of the website for Clogher don Óige. He felt that the launch of the website – in recognition of the advancements in our society today – will be a necessary and interesting method of communication and sharing with the youth.

Mairéad Murphy spoke about the mission of Clogher don Óige and the youth-centred work that has been undertaken since its inception. Mairéad continued to outline the setting up of Clogher don Óige, the strengths and issues that Clogher don Óige faced, their current situation and future plans.

Clogher don Óige wish to offer its most sincere gratitude to all the young people who gave freely of their time and talents, to make the launch the success that it was. They were instrumental in creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere through their music and greeting of the guests.

A special word of thanks goes to Michael Kerr in recognition of his beautiful and thought-provoking design, which Clogher don Óige has chosen as its emblem.