Corpus Christi College of Occupational Education and Training held a Thanksgiving Mass at Our Lady Mother of Mercy RC Church, River Estate, Diego Martin, on September 6.

The Mass was celebrated by Fr Paul Jesuraja, parish priest, in recognition of the dedicated and loyal service of our vice principal, Peter Timothy, who served in the capacity of teacher for 16 years and vice principalfor six years, Gloria Howell (15 years) Juditha Fitzwilliams (10 years) Jenny Joseph (8 years) and Patrick Johnson (7 years).

Holy Mass began with a vibrant rendition of the Entrance hymn O Creator by the school choir. There was full participation by the staff and students who were also responsible for the Readings, Prayers of the Faithful and Offertory Gifts.

Fr Paul in his homily, offered words of advice to both staff and students. He urged the students in particular to be obedient to their parents, teachers and elders.

He exhorted them that while at school, they should put their minds and hearts to the task ahead and be determined to build character, keep focussed and rely totally on God.

Sr Petronilla and members of the congregation at the Thanksgiving Mass

Juditha Fitzwilliams, Peter Timothy, Gloria Howell and Jenny Joseph

These instructions were necessary if they were to strive to become all that God wants them to be. Holy Mass concluded with the beautiful Recessional hymn Trading my Sorrows,which left everyone spiritually uplifted.

Fr Paul was presented with a token of appreciation for his continued spiritual support to the staff and students through celebrating our monthly school Masses.

Following the Mass, everyone gathered at the St John’s Hall for a delightful luncheon/reception.

On behalf of Sr Antoinette Dickie, Superior General of the Corpus Christi Carmelites, Sr Maria Immaculata addressed Mr Timothy, acknowledging his long service to the Corpus Christi Carmelite Sisters.

She remembered him as a young boy in the parish who made his presence felt and commended him for his faithful service for 25 years.  She said that he proved to be a friend indeed, through his loyal service.

She wished him continued success in his undertakings and assured him that he would always have a place in the hearts of the Sisters, who in turn will give him of their prayerful support.

Sr Petronilla (principal) then introduced Heather Burris-Thomas as the new Vice principal of Corpus Christi College, succeeding Mr Timothy. Mrs Burris Thomas served the school in the capacity of teacher and Head of the Science Department and for ten years. The news of her promotion was therefore received with joy.

Sr Helena Profeiro (first principal of Corpus Christi College) read a congratulatory letter from of Sr Antoinette Dickie. This was followed by a symbolic handing over of the office of vice principal, by Mr Timothy to Mrs Burris-Thomas.

Mr Timothy performed this role effectively, as he presented with Ms Burris-Thomas with the keys for the school and the vice principal’s office.

A sumptuous luncheon followed at the St John’s Parish hall, Church Street, Diego Martin. Master of Ceremonies was Christopher Gouveia, a former teacher of the school, who was commended highly for his faithfulness.

Sr Helena got the programme started with an Opening Prayer followed immediately by the newly appointed Vice Principal, Mrs. Burris-Thomas delivering the welcome address.She thanked the guests of honour for allowing God to use them through their being able to touch so many lives.

Monique Clement, a past student provided entertainment with a soothing rendition of the beautiful song To God be the Glory. There were presentations of gifts, flowers and plaques to the honourees.

Words that would most appropriately describe each of the honourees were taken from Scripture.

These words were read as each came forward to receive his/her gift and certificate.
• Gloria Howell who described her relationship with Corpus Christi as a “good marriage”, received the Scriptural passage “I call you friends”  (Jn 15:15).
• Peter Timothy was described as beingfaithful and steadfastand received the text“I chose you before you were born” (Jer 1:1)
• Juditha Fitzwilliams was remembered for her motherly love with the quotation “as a hen gathers her chicks” (Mt23: 37) and
• Jenny Joseph who was well known for her quiet efficiency, received the quotation “We did not try to get praise from anyone either from you or others” (Thess 2:6-7).

Monique, a past student serenaded the guests of honour as a final gesture of goodwill. Sr Petronilla delivered the vote of thanks and the day’s celebration ended on a memorable note of joy and laughter.

She reminded the audience of Corpus Christi College’s approaching 50th Anniversary, when celebrations would last from September 8, 2008 to September 8, 2009.

She extended invitations to all past and present students, and friends, to participate in the planning of the year-long celebrations. On behalf of the, staff and students, and on her own behalf, she thanked the honourees once again and wished them God’s choicest blessings, asthey continue on their journey in faith.

Indeed, a day well spent and an unforgettable experience!