ONE of the country’s leading secondary education institutions, St Joseph Tenaru, on Saturday received a special book which was launched to mark the school’s 75th anniversary.
The book, titled ‘Sacrifice and Leadership’, documents commentaries and reflections from both students and teachers, current and former, sharing their experience during their time at school from as far back as before the WWII.
Priceless photos show people who graced the school during its initial days at Aruligo, activities and places, up to the current site at Tenaru.
This handover followed the book’s launching on Sunday, September 19 at Holy Cross Hall by Archdiocese Vica General Fr John Galvin representing His Grace Archbishop Christopher Cardone OP.
The writers and editors handed the book to Marist representatives, the school Head-boy and Head-girl, and the teachers – the book is now rightly owned by the School.
During the handover, chief editor of the book Sam Alasia in his emotional but joyful remarks, acknowledged those involved in putting together the book and Archbishop Chris for supporting the book.
He said this ceremony is a great milestone for the school, Marists and Catholic Education in Solomon Islands.
“This is our achievement because no school in the Solomons has achieved what we have done,” he said
“Marist brothers for their educational endeavours and their spirituality which continues to shine out today at St Joseph’s.
“Now the book has returned to where it rightly belongs, at St Joseph’s Tenaru.
“St Joseph’s Tenaru travelled 75 years till now. This is a great achievement.”
School Principal Abraham Hihiru acknowledged the all the writers and everyone who contributed in creating the book towards the school’s 75th Anniversary.
Anniversary celebrations will take place from October 7-9, 2021.
He reflected on the story of Neil Armstrong’s words when he became the first human being to land on the moon in 1969.
“One small step for a man but a giant leap for mankind,” he quoted.
“Appollo 11 which carried Armstrong and two other astronauts travelled about 75 hrs to reach the moon.
“The book has been a small step for us all the writers but a giant leap for St Joseph’s as an institution.”
Former students Sally Pita and Frank Wickham and Current Head Boy and Girl also shared their experience as students of the school and how the school shaped and formed them, not only in their education and physical upbringing, but also nurtured their spiritual wellbeing.
–CATHOLIC COMMUNICATION
