The nationally acclaimed music group, Elation Ministries, with strong Athlone connections, are settling back to their normal routine after having spent all last week leading thousands of young people in celebrating their faith in music and song at the 50th International Eucharistic Congress in Dublin.

It was the first ever Eucharistic Congress to have an exciting programme and space designated solely for young people. Elation Ministries were honoured to act as house band in the "Youth Space" and also to contribute in the main arena before thousands of pilgrims. They led lively prayer and praise sessions, Christian music concerts, a moving reconciliation service and much more. Speaking afterwards the Group Leader Sean Feeney, reflecting on the experience, said :"We are so hopeful and excited about the future of the Catholic Church in Ireland and hope to continue to make ourselves available to assist in this ongoing process of renewal''

Youth Officer for the Youth Space, Anna Keegan, stated: "Elation Ministries captured the mood of all the pilgrims at every moment, they knew when to play a lively song or a more reflective tune. Elation really stood out to me most of all though because of their willingness to serve, not just in music ministry but in all forms of service. Elation were true witnesses to the Gospel during IEC 2012 and a pure joy to work with''.

The group started with seven friends coming together to pray and explore their faith.

Currently the group has 25 members from various parts of the country however they still hold strong to their midland

connections as some of their key members, Maria, Teresa and Catriona Looby and Aine, Deirdre, Joseph and Louise Egan hail from Clara and Taughmaconnell.

They have just released their second album "Still I Know" and have relished being involved with this international gathering. For more information on Elation Ministries check out www.elationministries.com or Phone 0879404299.