Joy and happiness reverberated around the surroundings of Maryland Comprehensive Secondary School (MCSS), Maryland, Lagos, last weekend, when the school celebrated its 55th Foundation Day anniversary and presentation of prizes to outstanding students in grand style. The event which began with Mass, which had the students, parents, teachers and staff gathered in their numbers was also attended by various sets of the old students, popularly referred to as the Landers, who came from far and near to be part of the festivity. Speaking on the occasion, Most Rev. (Dr.) Alfred Adewale Martins, Catholic Archbishop of Lagos and the school Proprietor, said MCSS, as well as other Catholic schools were started because Jesus’ disciples followed His instruction to go into the world and proclaim the gospel to all creation.
Archbishop Martins said the reason the people are able to gather to celebrate the 55th foundation day of Maryland Comprehensive Secondary School is because the apostles listened, and with the courage they received from the Holy Spirit, they did what they were asked to do, The Archbishop asked the students to put to flame the values of Christ and His Church that are sowed into their hearts, and which they are expected to carry out wherever they go to in the future. He said all that the students are taught is for the purpose of making them wholesome persons, with a sense of responsibility and care for not only their families, but for the common good. For her part, Rev. Sr. Agnes Adepoju, the school Administrator, expressed joy and gratitude to God as she said the celebration is a testament of God’s faithfulness, mercy and endless love.
She said the transformation and growth that is continually experienced in the institution would not have been possible if God had not been on their side in a very special way and also the intercession of Blessed Virgin Mary and support and care of the proprietor. She acknowledged the support of Very Rev. Fr. Anthony Fadairo, Dean, Maryland Deanery, the chaplains, past and present, sisters from OLA Community, Maryland, the parents, Marylanders, staff and students. She charged the students to ensure they exhibit the qualities that will enable them to navigate challenges and continue to set high standards for themselves, challenge their limits and strive for excellence in all that they do.
