Golden Jubilee of Cerdon College

Marist Sisters with Ex-Students of Cerdon College

Cerdon College recently celebrated 50 years since it was established by the Marist Sisters at Merrylands with Sr. Doreen McOscar (Sr. Felician) as Principal assisted by Sr. Claire Penfold. On 26th June 2010 the occasion was marked with an Anniversary Dinner held at Rosehill Gardens in western Sydney. All the Marist Sisters had been invited. Among those who could accept were several who had taught at Cerdon, including a previous Principal, even a couple who had been students there. When the 400 guests were seated, Mrs. Patricia Baker, the current Principal, introduced the event by recalling the contribution of the Marist Sisters, naming the past Principals – Srs. Doreen, Carmel Conran, Joan McBride (Sr. Aquinas) and Ann-Marie Webb (Sr Gerard Majella). The sumptuous meal was punctuated by some wonderful entertainment offered by past students of the College – the highlight being a rendition of the School song by its composer, Jenna Hogan. Jenna had written “In All Things Christ” when only 15 years old. There was a Trivia Quiz to engage each table-group and a constant stream of filmed memories to watch, as well as the opportunity to be photographed next to life-size mannequins dressed as the Marist Founders – Chavoin, Colin, Champagnat and Perroton. A heart-warming touch was a film-clip of Sr. Doreen, who at 96 was unable to be present, but nevertheless clearly and warmly shared her memories of the beginnings of Cerdon College and offered her loving wishes. In a typically generous gesture, there was also a raffle, the proceeds of which were offered to the Marist Sisters’ Mission in Papua New Guinea – providentially, Sr. Kate McPhee was present to express her gratitude on behalf of the Kanosia Community.