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s2smodern

In March of this year, the Collège de la Sainte Famille in Cairo celebrated the 140th anniversary of its founding in 1879. These celebrations brought together people of all ages tied to the school, past and present. Festivities kicked off during the second week of March with an awards ceremony recognizing the valuable contributions of all the teachers, staff and Jesuits who have worked at the College de la Sainte Famille over the years, especially those who have since moved to other jobs or retired.

This all felt like a big family reunion, and I felt welcomed by all as though I had been at the school for years, even though it is still my first year in Egypt, where I am currently doing my regency.

The annual “Kermesse” took place on the 22nd of March. This year it again took place at one of our two primary schools, the Petit College du Heliopolis, and was livened by the theme of our celebrations. Food, stalls, crafts, games and a music festival showcasing the talents of our students all contributed to this wonderful occasion for students, staff, families and friends. It was also a good occasion for me to get to know students and their families outside the strictly scholastic context.

On the 23rd March, Jesuits, staff, ex-alumni and numerous special guests, including the Egyptian Minister of Education Dr. Tarek Galal Shawki, the Papal Nuncio to Egypt Mgr. Bruno Musaro, the French Ambassador M. Stéphane Romatet, the Hungarian Ambassador Dr. Péter Kveck, the Polish Ambassador Dr. Michał Łabenda and the Indian Consul Mr. S. R. Sanil, were treated to an evening where we had a chance to reflect together on the history of the school, watching videos and photos recording the school’s past, listening to testimonies of students past and present, and reflecting on possibilities for the future. A lot seems to have changed over the years! Also present at this event were the Assistant of Father General Fr. Victor Assouad SJ, the Provincial, Fr. Dany Younes SJ, and the Secretary for Education (Secondary and Pre-Secondary) of the Society, Fr. José Alberto Mesa, SJ.   

Celebrations concluded with a Thanksgiving Mass on Sunday 24th March. All those present were given a small card with the image of St. Ignatius and the Suscipe at the end of the Mass as a reminder of the roots of the school’s spirit and the spirit we desire going forward. It was also a reminder for me, approaching the end of my first year of regency, to continue trusting in God and his plans for me in this great country filled with wonderful people!

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s2smodern