Spiritual Life (To visit our pages on the College Chapel, click here)
Castleknock College has always been mindful of the importance of promoting the spiritual and religious growth of its pupils by creating a truly Christian atmosphere in the College. This ensures that boys mature within the context of the Christian faith which will continue to inform and colour their lives at all times.
An annual Family Mass for each Year is celebrated at which boys of that Year and their families participate together with the Community and teachers. Masses are held at regular times in the Chapel (e.g. Lent, Advent, Exam Time). Year and Class Masses, Benediction, scripture/prayer group meetings are held regularly throughout the year.
Opportunity to attend the Sacrament of Reconciliation is available during the school year during Advent and Lent.
The College chaplain, Fr John Gallagher and members of the Vincentian Community are available at all times for guidance and counselling throughout the year.
St. Vincent de Paul Society
In keeping with the Vincentian philosophy of "seeing the person of Christ in every man", the College has always encouraged pupils to become involved in caring for the less-well-off members of society, thus reflecting the truly liberal education they receive in Castleknock.
The Conferences of the Society of Vincent de Paul within the College are very active in caring for old people and the mentally handicapped. The approach is unobtrusive, personal, sensitive and constant.
Liam Townsend being presented with the medal of St Vincent which was specially designed in Slovakia. The medal was presented in recognition of Liam's dedication as President of the Society of St Vincent de Paul.
The Union Medal is awarded annually to a 6th Year Student nominated by the Teaching Staff of the College. The criteria for the award is neither academic nor sporting achievement, but “for courage and determination in personal and communal life – for development of character through placing his talents at the service of others, and through his efforts to come to terms with himself and life in Castleknock – for growth as an integrated, genuine person”.
Recipients of the "Union Medal"
| 2003 | Eoin McDonnell |
| 2004 | Barry Maguire |
| 2005 | Fergus Holly |
| 2006 | Adrian Toolan |
| 2007 | Conor Barry |
| 2008 | Cormac Doherty |
| 2009 | Patrick Leonard |
| 2010 | Ronan O'Byrne |
| 2011 | Jack Hurley |
| 2012 | |
| 2013 |
