Motherwell school celebrates 150th anniversary with special Mass
Pupils and staff from a Motherwell primary have marked 150 years since the school opened.
Cathedral Primary School kids gathered for a special Mass in the school hall to celebrate the opening of the school and to celebrate the parish and school’s 150th anniversary year.
The Mass, led by Bishop Toal as principal celebrant, was a joyous occasion filled with music beautifully performed by the school choir under the direction of Mr. Greechin.
A stunning floral display, generously donated by a parent, adorned the altar as a ‘thank you’ from Cathedral pupils to their teachers and helpers.
Provost Kenneth Duffy and the council’s education convener, Councillor Michael McBride, attended the Mass and presented commemorative 150th anniversary medals to pupils and staff.
The medals, featuring the school badge on one side and an image of Our Lady on the reverse, were a tribute to the school’s rich history.
A particularly special moment came when three generations of the McGuire family received their medals: Mary, 87, who attended the school in the 1895 building; her son Frank, educated in the 1950s/60s; and her granddaughter Sophie, a current P7 pupil.
Provost Duffy said: “This Mass was a wonderful way to begin the 150th anniversary celebrations. It was inspiring to see the Cathedral community come together to honour their shared history and look forward to the future with hope and joy.”
The school’s head teacher Graeme Young added: “The 150th anniversary is a milestone that reflects the dedication, faith, and resilience of everyone who has been part of Cathedral’s story.
“We are excited to celebrate this special year with our pupils, staff, families, and parishioners through a series of events we have planned throughout the anniversary year.”
A highlight will be the special Mass in the Cathedral on Wednesday, May 14, featuring a Mass setting composed by Mr. Young and dedicated to Cathedral pupils and staff.
Following the Mass, stones from the 1895 building will be dedicated in their new location within the Cathedral grounds, and an exhibition on the school’s history, curated by primary seven pupils, will open in St Bride’s Hall.
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