Young people: look towards the altar and realise that Our Lady is with you

12-year-old Anthony Buday won first place in the National Knock Basilica Art Competition, which celebrated the 50th anniversary of the basilica. Anthony created a model of the basilica using 600 sugar cubes, cardboard, paper, paint, wooden sticks, hot glue, golden paper, and LEGO figures.

An altar server since age five, Anthony said that wearing a cassock and being near the altar during the Consecration feels special. He expressed a preference for the quiet moments that allow him to focus on the altar.

Anthony also shared that his mother taught him and his siblings to pray the Rosary, especially when facing worry, fear, confusion, or heavy suffering. He noted that his family turns to Mary whenever they are stuck in life or when something great happens.