Clydebank’s John Gallacher Achieves Caritas Award

That the Parliament congratulates John Gallacher from Clydebank, former pupil of St Peter the Apostle High School (SPTA), on being awarded the Scottish Catholic Education Service Caritas Award 2024; recognises that the Caritas Award gives pupils opportunities to show their love for others, encourages and promotes the ongoing faith journey of young people, and supports and celebrates the faith witness that young people give within their communities; understands that John achieved the award in recognition of his commitment to serving his school, parish and local community; further understands that the work included welcoming members of the congregation every Sunday morning at St Margaret’s Church, Clydebank, in which he has been commended for bringing reliability, his positive attitude, unwavering commitment and his friendly demeanour; notes that, as part of the S6 Caritas Group at SPTA, John assisted during parent evenings and an S1 information evening, giving guided tours and answering any questions, organising the S1 Halloween disco, read and served at liturgical services, and represented the school at faith events at St Andrews Cathedral; understands that, additionally, he contributed to the SPTA Annual Christmas Community Event, hosting 80 residents from the local community and care homes, with John preparing food, presenting bingo with wit and humour, and spending time serving and chatting to guests; further understands that John also contributed to the wider life of the school as S6 Vice Captain, offering advice and support to other pupils and arranging the S6 prom; recognises all of John’s amazing work; believes that he has shown immense commitment and compassion in serving his school, community and parish; thanks him for his outstanding work, and wishes him all the very best for his future.