'We’ve had a huge impact on the face of Limerick': City school to mark nine decades of teaching

IN THE heart of Limerick City, the echoes of nine decades of study, and sisterhood will fill the halls of Laurel Hill Coláiste FCJ this November, as the school marks its 90th anniversary.

Deputy Principal Marinella Ní Reachtaire said the anniversary is “a very auspicious occasion,” one that will pay tribute to “90 years of long-serving dedication to the education of girls” in Limerick and beyond.

The celebration will take place on Saturday, November 8, beginning with a special Mass celebrated by Bishop Brendan Leahy, followed by a reception in the school’s concert hall, D'Houet Hall. “The Mass will focus on the kind of traditions that have long been upheld by successions of FCJ sisters and teachers in the school,” Ms Ní Reachtaire explained.

After the Mass, speeches will be given by Principal Úna Uí Ghríofa, the chairperson of the Board of Management, and members of the FCJ community. “We have somebody from the Leaving Cert class of 1961 so that's a considerable achievement to be still willing to come back and just celebrate the history of your school,” said Ms Ní Reachtaire.

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A special commemorative pin has been commissioned featuring the FCJ emblem and the words ‘Dia, Muire agus Éire’ (God, Mary, and Ireland) — the three traditional pillars of the school’s ethos.

The deputy principal stated: “Next week every student in the school is going to be issued with one of those little pins in a special little bag with a little prayer and bookmark... We'll also be doing a flash mob in the Crescent next week.”

Principal Úna Uí Ghríofa added: “We’re a small school but we’ve had a huge impact on the face of Limerick...

“It’s a privilege to be here as principal to celebrate this occasion.”