Marists celebrate Educational Development Day in Trichy
Brothers and staff of the Marcellin Trust—Operation Rainbow Project, in Trichy, and the Servite College of Education for Women, in Thogaimalai, in India, celebrated on July 16 the “Educational Development Day” at St. Marcellin Community Hall, in Trichy, Uyyakondan Thirumalai.
The event was held to commemorate the 121st birth anniversary of Kamarajar, a former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu who shared the same vision as St. Marcellin Champagnat and was a staunch advocate for education of rural children and young people.
The distinguished guests included Sr. Dr. Poorana Sheela, Principal of Servite College for Women, Sr. Bernathath, Secretary, Fr. Abraham Quily, SAC., Br. Jeffrey Crowe, Br. Johnson Gnanasekar, and Mr. Johnson Sathiyanatha, a retired teacher, who delivered the facilitation address, and Mrs. Monica as the Master of Ceremony, assisted by Miss Swathi and Abdulla.
The event began with a tribute to Kamarajar, followed by a lamp lighting ceremony and a prayer song. Students from Servite College of Education for Women, Operation Rainbow Project, and Holy Cross College, in Trichy, showcased various cultural events such as dance and singing performances. Students also highlighted through their interventions Kamarajar’s contributions and sacrifices for the betterment of children and people in Tamil Nadu.
A highlight of the event was the distribution of study materials, school uniforms, and scholarships to children at the Rainbow Project. Students received notebooks, school bags, wrappers, stationery kits, writing pads, geometry boxes, among other items. There were also competitions for students with special prizes. The event concluded with lunch and the distribution of rations and medicines to participants.
The organizers – Brothers, Rainbow staff, and Marcellin Club members – were commended for their efforts in making the event a memorable and wonderful experience.
On his part, Br. Rajakumar Soosai thanked to the benefactors and project partners for their long-standing support and extending solidarity to children in most need”.