The Marian Award is a distinctive Catholic religious medal bestowed upon young people who successfully complete the Mary, the First Disciple program.
What is the Marian Award?
The Marian Award, often referred to as the Marian Medal, is a significant recognition within the Catholic Church, specifically designed for young individuals. It symbolizes a deep engagement with and understanding of the role of Mary, the mother of Jesus, within the Catholic faith. This award represents the culmination of dedicated study and spiritual formation focused on Marian devotion.
Key Features of the Marian Medal
The physical Marian Medal is crafted with specific symbolism, serving as a tangible reminder of the recipient's spiritual journey:
- It prominently features an image of Mary holding baby Jesus, embodying the central figures of the Catholic faith and the devotion to the Blessed Mother.
- It is specifically awarded to young people, marking their commitment and progress in their Catholic religious education and spiritual development.
How is the Marian Award Earned?
Earning the Marian Award involves a structured and comprehensive religious program, ensuring that recipients acquire a thorough understanding of Marian theology and devotion. The process typically includes:
- Completion of the Mary, the First Disciple Catholic Religious Program: This program is the primary requirement. It guides young participants through various aspects of Mary's life, virtues, and her significance in the Church, fostering a deeper connection to their faith.
- Formal Application and Submission: Upon successful completion of the program, participants are required to fill out an application. This application is usually found at the back of the program book and must be formally submitted to their local diocese. This step ensures proper recognition and record-keeping of the achievement within the ecclesiastical structure.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To recognize young people's understanding of and devotion to Mary, Mother of Jesus. |
| Recipient | Young individuals actively participating in Catholic religious education and formation. |
| Visual Depiction | Features an image of Mary holding baby Jesus. |
| Core Requirement | Successful completion of the Mary, the First Disciple Catholic religious program. |
| Formal Step | Submission of an application from the program book to the local diocese. |
| Administering Body | Often recognized and facilitated through diocesan offices, and materials may be supported by organizations like the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry (NFCYM). |
This award serves as a powerful testament to a young person's commitment to their faith and their journey of discipleship, with Mary as an exemplary figure.
