This week in the Civic Offices, Drogheda, Canon Eugene Sweeney presented the overall prize in the Saint Oliver 400 art competition to Arina Ryzhakova from Whitecross National School in Julianstown, whose work stood out among the 1,800 entries from over 100 schools across Ireland.  

Arina’s winning piece, was chosen for its artistic merit,  creativity, and heartfelt expression of the competition’s theme, which celebrates the life and legacy of Ireland’s beloved saint during this 400th anniversary year.  

The presentation took place in the Saint Oliver 400 Exhibition Hall, which currently hosts a striking display of memorabilia, artwork, and historical items marking the milestone of Saint Oliver’s birth and 50 years since his canonisation.  

Joining Canon Eugene and Arina for the presentation were committee members Tom Hodgins and Tommy Burns, and Arina’s mother, Yuliia Ryzhakova, who proudly stood by her daughter’s side during the presentation.  

The Saint Oliver 400 Committee expressed deep gratitude to all schools, teachers, and young artists who took part in the competition. The winning artwork will remain on display throughout the exhibition’s run, offering visitors a glimpse of the powerful impact Saint Oliver continues to have on the next generation. 

Meanwhile, the celebrations for the Saint ‘Oliver Plunkett 400 celebrations continue this weekend with the inaugural ‘Gathering’ of the Plunkett Clan in Loughcrew House and Gardens on Friday 4 July.    

On Saturday 5th July there will be a family day on West Street from midday until 5.00pm, followed by a concert at 8.00 pm in St. Peter’s Church with the Male Voice Choir and special guests Sean Tester and Celine Byrne.  

On Sunday 6th July the annual procession departs from Holy Family Church, Ballsgrove (A92 W2PW) at 3pm and makes its way to  St. Peter’s Church, West Street where Mass will be celebrated by Archbishop Eamon Martin with refreshments afterwards in The Marcy Hotel.