South Wales: Teacher receives Papal award

A former Port Talbot teacher has been presented with an award from Pope Francis for her dedication to volunteering and helping to educate others on development issues.

Sandra Davies, who has spent the last quarter of a century volunteering for CAFOD, has been formally recognised by the Pope for her contribution in South Wales.

Issued by Pope Francis, the Papal award was presented at the end of Sunday Mass on at Sunday 6 October at St Joseph's Church in Neath, to the surprise and delight of the congregation.

The church was beautifully decorated for Harvest and over 70 parishioners, keen to support Sandra and all she has done, attended Mass, which was beautifully led by pupils from St Joseph's Catholic Primary School in Neath. There was wonderful singing and thanksgiving hymns and contributions for the local food bank were brought to the altar at the offertory.

Therese Warwick, CAFOD's representative in South Wales, said: "It is very rare that you meet someone so dedicated to helping others and changing lives for the better.

"Sandra has a long history of working to educate children and young people about issues that affect global communities - and has helped people in the local community to better understand the issues that are facing some of the poorest communities around the world."

After Mass, in the parish hall, Sandra shared her experience of being a CAFOD volunteer and thanked everyone who attended. She was then presented with a superb celebration cake, handcrafted by a fellow parishioner to mark the auspicious event, which was eagerly enjoyed by everyone present.

"Sandra has done everything from speaking at school to fundraising, taking part in charity events and campaigning, so it is wonderful to see everyone support her on this special day," continued Therese. "She's a very modest and self-effacing person with a heart of gold, quietly getting on with supporting Fr Neil Evans, her local parish community and CAFOD. We are very grateful for her unwavering support over the years."

"And, from everyone at CAFOD, we wanted to say a massive congratulations to Sandra for your Papal Blessing - it is truly deserved."

CAFOD has over 5,000 volunteers across England and Wales who help to educate, campaign and raise their voice on issues affecting some of the poorest communities in the world.

If you would like to get involved, please visit cafod.org.uk/volunteering