Maranatha, the second annual faith-based high energy music for Post-Primary Schools in the Diocese of Cork & Ross took place at Cork City Hall featuring pupils from all over Cork City and County.
Cork City Hall was filled with energy and applause as almost 500 young people lit up the stage with a concert.
The Maranatha 2026 concert featured post-primary school students from parishes throughout the Diocese of Cork and Ross. Twenty-three schools came together for the celebration, transforming the historic venue into a powerful showcase of talent and conviction.
Maranatha blends music, faith and fun — creating a space where students can express who they are, celebrate their identity and build lasting connections and friendships in an atmosphere of joy and community.
Bishop Fintan Gavin addressed the young people and the hundreds gathered from across the Diocese and reflected on the deeper purpose of Maranatha — a question that resonates with every generation.
“This morning you began with a simple question: Who here wants to be happy? And every hand went up. Deep down, every human heart longs for happiness. Before you succeed or fail, before anyone comments on you or follows you, you are the beloved son or daughter of God. You don’t earn that. You don’t compete for it. You receive it. Happiness begins as a gift received and it grows when it becomes a gift given away for others.”
Photos: Brian Lougheed
L-R: Michael Lane, MC; Sheila Kelleher, Diocesan Coordinator for Youth Ministry; The Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr. Fergal Dennehy; Bishop Fintan Gavin, Bishop of Cork and Ross Diocese; the Lady Mayoress, Karen Brennan; Cllr. Michal Looney, Deputising for the Mayor of the County of Cork; Ella Smith, MC
Yasamin Kowalczyk-Rhaimi, Ballincollig Community School and Annabelle Bird, Bishopstown Community School.
