Diamond Jubilee of St. Mary’s College, Chilaw

Christie Fernando, Chilaw special corr.

St. Mary’s College, Chilaw chalks up 75 years since its inception and a host of events are planned for September 17, 2008. The Alma Mater was founded and formed under the mantle of De La Salle Christian Brothers on September 17, 1933. St. Mary’s College began with a group of three Christian Brothers of the Order of De La Salle. The school initially was housed at the Chilaw Catholic Association building.

The first director of the school was Brother Caesar Albert from France. The names of the other two were Brother J. Joseph from Czechoslovakia and Brother Bernard, a native of the soil.

Gradually, the school progressed in many respects both academically, as well as sports. The De La Salle Brothers without fear or favour continued dauntlessly to impart education and training to both Catholics and non Catholics in Chilaw and the outskirts.

The De La Salle Brothers are known all over the world as educationists par excellence who are proficient and talented in imparting wisdom and knowledge to students, with their unique and unparalleled methodology and approach.

The executive committee of the Old Boys’ Association has announced a host of events to celebrate the occasion on a grand scale with the participation of present students as well as old boys, parents and well-wishers.

The programme for the anniversary has been organised by the Diamond Jubilee Committee and the day’s programme for September 17 is sponsored by the Old Boys Association as well as the Colombo Branch Maryanites. The highlights of the day include the presentation of special awards and certificates to outstanding students of the school, the ceremonial blessing and opening of the college pavilion and new gymnasium and the issue of Jubilee Souvenirs.

Rt. Rev. Dr. Valence Mendis, Bishop of Chilaw and Rt. Rev. Dr. Frank Marcus Fernando, Bishop Emeritus will concelebrate Holy Mass at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral, Chilaw at 7.00 a.m. on September 17 (Wednesday) followed by a procession to the venue at St. Mary’s College where a meeting will be held with the participating guests, students, parents and well-wishers.

The present executive committee wishes to thank the well-wishers, past students and parents for their contributions, co-operation and assistance extended in diverse ways.

The Diamond Jubilee celebration culminates with a ‘Diamond Jubilee night - 2008’ to be held at the Shalom beach hotel, Ambakandawila road, Chilaw on 20th September from 7.00 p.m. to 11.00 p.m.