Year of celebrations for historic Millicent school
Schools
The historic St Anthony’s School, Millicent, is gearing up for a grand celebration marking its 125th anniversary in 2024.
Established by the Mercy Sisters in 1899, the educational institution has been a cornerstone of academic excellence and Catholic values since its inception.
The journey began on July 27 1898 when the foundation stone for the convent and school was laid. The dedication of the Convent of St Anthony of Padua took place on February 1 1899 and on February 4 1899 the Convent of Mercy School, as it was then known, opened its doors to 20 students.
The first superior was Mother Mary de Sales, who was assisted by the Sisters of Mercy – Sr Evangelist, Sr Antonia, Sr Berkmans and Sr Josephine.
Originally, the school was divided into two sections: the junior school, called St. Anthony’s, and the senior school, St Joseph’s.
But in 1969, the school underwent a transformation and ever since has been known simply as St Anthony’s.
The school was under the care of the Sisters of Mercy until 1981 when they bowed out after
83 years of service.
As the school approaches this significant milestone, a year-long celebration is planned, starting with a special Beginning of Year Mass and Opening Ceremony on Wednesday, February 7 followed by a Boys Day Out on March 22.
The festivities continue in Term 2 and Term 3 with events including a Mother’s Day High Tea on May 11 and a whole of school Mass and veneration of the relic of St Anthony’s on June 19.
In Term 3 there will be a quiz night on August 9 and Mercy Week (September 14-29) will feature a short film screening and religious art exhibition.
The celebrations will conclude with a gala weekend from Friday October 18-20 with the opening of a time capsule, unveiling of a commemorative walk, gala dinner at the Civic Centre and closing Mass.
Old scholars are invited to register with the school and purchase a brick for the 125 Years Commemorative Walk.
Information will be available on the school’s Facebook page and at sta.catholic.edu.au.
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