“Rooted in Faith, Ruby in Glory” was the inspiring theme under which St. Theresa’s Higher Secondary School, Candolim celebrated its Ruby Jubilee, marking 40 glorious years of excellence in education, faith formation and service.
The celebrations commenced with unveiling of the official Ruby Jubilee Logo, symbolizing the institution’s remarkable journey of faith, learning and service followed by a solemn Eucharistic Celebration presided over by His Grace Most Rev. Simiao Purificação Fernandes, Auxiliary Bishop of Goa and Daman. He was joined by the concelebrants: Rev. Fr. Ryan Estibeiro, Manager of St. Theresa’s Higher Secondary School; Rev. Fr. Veizel Pereira, Manager of St. Theresa’s Pre-Primary and Primary School; former Managers Rev. Fr. Cipriano D’Silva and Rev. Fr. Peter Simon; Rev. Fr. Mariano Dias and Rev. Joisim D’Souza, Assistants to the Secretary at the Diocesean Society of Education.
In his homily, Bishop Simiao reflected on the significance of the Ruby Jubilee through the acronym RUBY:
*R – Remember:*He urged the gathering to remember and honour all the Managers, Principals, teachers, students, parents, and benefactors who contributed to the establishment and growth of the institution over the past forty years.
*U – Unity: He emphasized the importance of unity among all stakeholders as they continue to work together for the betterment of the institution.
*B – Becoming: He encouraged everyone to strive towards becoming better individuals and to grow into the persons God calls them to be.
*Y – Yield: He called upon the faithful to yield themselves to the will of God and trust in His divine plan.
The Holy Mass was followed by a short cultural programme. The event began with a melodious welcome song, followed by an elegant classical solo dance performance. Rev. Fr. Ryan Estibeiro then delivered the Manager’s Welcome Address, after which the dignitaries were warmly welcomed with floral tributes.
In his address, Bishop Simiao further reflected on the Konkani word “UTSOV” as a fitting description of the institution’s journey:
* U – Unity: For forty years, the school has united students, parents, teachers, and the wider community.
* T – Tradition: The institution cherishes a rich tradition of academic excellence, discipline, value-based education and character formation.
* S – Service: Education is a noble service to society and the nation, transcending all barriers of caste, creed and religion.
* O – Opportunity: The Ruby Jubilee presents yet another opportunity to celebrate achievements and embrace new possibilities for growth.
* V – Vision:He highlighted the importance of having a vision rooted in moral integrity, spiritual guidance, and holistic development.
He encouraged the management and staff to continue shaping young minds, striving for academic excellence and instilling enduring values in students. He also conveyed the heartfelt congratulations and blessings of His Eminence Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão on this significant milestone.
A special highlight of the programme was the felicitation of 28 meritorious students from the Arts, Commerce, and Vocational streams who had achieved distinction in their academic pursuits. The occasion also witnessed the felicitation of Exco members of the newly formed Past Pupils’ Association of St. Theresa’s Higher Secondary School, strengthening the bond between the institution and its alumni.
The programme concluded with the Vote of Thanks proposed by Principal Mrs. Rita D’Silva, who expressed her sincere gratitude to the dignitaries, staff members, students, parents and all those who contributed to the success of the celebration.
The Ruby Jubilee celebrations came to a close with a fellowship meal, leaving everyone with cherished memories and renewed inspiration to continue the institution’s legacy of faith, excellence and service.
“Rooted in Faith, Ruby in Glory” — a celebration of the past, a thanksgiving for the present, and a vision for the future.
