65 great pictures from Derry Diocese Fan The Flame at Celtic Park

The 20th Annual Fan the Flame Mass for children who received the Sacrament of Confirmation in the Diocese of Derry during the past year was celebrated at the GAA Grounds on Thursday, June 4.

The Mass was led by the Most Reverend Donal McKeown, Bishop of Derry, and he was joined by priests from across the diocese.

Newly elected Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Grace Uí Niallais, also attended in one of her first official engagements as Mayor.

John Keenan, Chairperson of Doire GAA, also extended a warm welcome to all gathered at Celtic Park.

Approximately 3,000 young people from Derry, Donegal, and Tyrone took part in the special celebration of faith.

In preparation for the Mass, children completed reflective journals and created colourful T-shirts and flags based on the theme, ‘Serving Others with the Gifts God has Given Me’.

Music for the celebration was led by the Long Tower Folk Group, continuing their dedicated involvement across all 20 Fan the Flame Masses.

Pupils from schools throughout the diocese participated in the Liturgy of the Word and Offertory Procession, whilst each school proudly carried a banner during the entrance and recessional processions. Schools from the Parish of Dungiven led the congregation in the closing hymn, He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands.

A spokesperson for the Diocese said: “This joyful and uplifting celebration was made possible through the dedication and generosity of volunteers who gave freely of their time and talents.”

"It was especially encouraging to see young people from diocesan post primary schools supporting the recently Confirmed children and helping to create an experience that will remain with them for many years to come.”