Over 2,000 students thronged the gymnasium of De La Salle College in Vittoriosa on Wednesday, the feast day of St John Baptist de la Salle.
The Lasallian community worldwide is this year celebrating the 300th death anniversary of de La Salle, patron saint of teachers. The French priest and educational reformer passed away on April 7, 1719.
Students from Stella Maris College in Gżira also attended the commemoration which kicked off with Mass in honour of the saint. It was concelebrated by over 15 priests, all former De La Salle students, and led by Archbishop Charles Scicluna.
Mgr Scicluna was later presented with a metal plaque featuring the saint by De La Salle college director Brother Martin Borg, while Stella Maris College director Brother David Mizzi presented him with an etching of the saint. Mgr Scicluna was also presented with a commemorative stamp issue and a first day cover by Brother Martin.
Mass was followed by a feast of song and dance in which students from both schools participated. Guest singers Ira Losco and Owen Leuellen were given an enthusiastic welcome by the students, who clapped, screamed and danced as the duo performed. The show was compered by singer and entertainer Janvil.
The Brothers of the Christian Schools opened their first school in Malta in Strada Buongiorno, Cospicua, in 1903. Another school eventually opened in Sliema.
Throughout the 20th century, the schools grew and changed, adapting to the needs and challenges of the times, but never losing sight of the founder’s main objective: to help students develop as persons in all aspects of their life.