Fr. Michael John’s Felicitation Programme

A priest by ordination, a gentleman by nature and a great human being by default best describes Fr. Michael John SJ, the former and longest serving Principal of St Joseph’s Boys’ High School (1993 – 2006). Father was a visionary, under whose able guidance; the present towering façade of the school building got its spacious classrooms, auditorium, AV halls and laboratories. He was, is and always will be remembered fondly by the teachers, Old Boys and well-wishers for his yeoman service in the institution.

A glorious milestone in his spiritual journey was the celebration of 50 years of service as a priest. Fr. John celebrated this event in a grand way at the community and provincial level. However, to commemorate his special event, SJBHS with its management, staff and OBA gathered in the auditorium on 30 March 2022, for a short but meaningful celebration.

Prayers for Fr. Michaels’s good health and happiness followed by our Vice Principal, Mr. Uday Kumar’s introduction along with a video on the life of Fr. Michael that had messages from the former and present teachers and members of the OBA, who spoke of the adulation and affection for the humble priest. The music department of SJBHS serenaded the celebrant by singing Father’s favourite song.

Our Principal, Fr. Sunil Fernandes SJ, in his message referred to the biblical interpretation of the word ‘Jubilee’, stressing on the 5 R’s of Return, Release, Redemption, Rest and Renewal. Wishing his predecessor well, our Principal asked for grace from God on the jubilarian.

Fr. Michael, in his reply, shared his sentiments, thoughts and feelings on the occasion. He said that today was his day to look back on the years gone by; look around and thank those who made his journey possible; look within to see things in God and to see God in all things; and to look forward to the future with trust and hope in the Almighty. The programme came to a close with high tea an everyone mingled with congratulatory wishes for the much loved, Fr. Michael John SJ.