175th Anniversary Celebrations

St. Michael High School, Mahim, proudly marked a historic milestone as it celebrated 175 glorious years of academic excellence, moral formation, and community service. The evening was themed “Inspiring Generations, Empowering Futures,” perfectly encapsulating the legacy and forward-looking spirit of the institution.

The event, held in the school auditorium on June 14, 2025, began on an auspicious note with a warm welcome extended to all attendees. The atmosphere was filled with reverence and anticipation as the entourage of dignitaries entered the auditorium to a thunderous round of applause.

Heading the procession was the Chief Guest, His Eminence Cardinal Oswald Gracias, a proud alumnus of the school. He was joined by Hon’ble Justice Ferdino Inácio Rebello, another distinguished former student of the school. The dignitaries were accompanied by the Manager, Rev. Fr. Richard Crasto, Principal Sr. Sugandha Pereira, Secondary Section Supervisor Ms Lynette D’cruz, Primary Headmistress Sr. Celine Serrao, and Pre-Primary In-Charge Rev. Fr. Conrad Pereira — all of whom continue to shape the school’s vibrant academic and spiritual culture.

The Master of Ceremonies began the celebration by paying tribute to the school’s rich legacy dating back to 1850, the programme was then brought alive through a soulful prayer dance by the students of the Primary Section, filling the auditorium with a sense of peace and devotion.

The felicitation ceremony began by honouring the Chief Guest, Cardinal Oswald Gracias, whose illustrious journey from the classrooms of St. Michael’s to the global stage of the Vatican has inspired generations. His achievements, spanning from ecclesiastical leadership to social advocacy, were eloquently shared by Ms. Lynette D’cruz. The Manager Rev. Fr. Richard Crasto presented him with a token of gratitude and admiration.

Justice Ferdino Inácio Rebello was warmly welcomed and felicitated. His contributions to the Indian judiciary and activism in social causes were highlighted by Tr. Pareeta, who emphasized how Justice Rebello’s journey continues to reflect the school’s core values of truth and justice. He too

was presented with a token of gratitude.

The event also honoured the Manager, Rev. Fr. Gerald Richard Crasto, for his remarkable leadership and unwavering commitment to the parish and the school. Since his appointment as Parish Priest in June 2024, Fr. Crasto has played a pivotal role in steering the school towards academic and spiritual excellence, including the remarkable 100% SSC results in the academic year 2024–2025. His felicitation was carried out by His Eminence Cardinal Gracias.

A heartfelt welcome was also extended to all revered priests, past and present, former teachers, and alumni, whose dedication and contribution have been the backbone of the school’s journey.

The audience was then treated to a PowerPoint Presentation prepared by Trs Ruhana, Samiksha, and Serene, showcasing the historical transformation of St. Michael High School from its humble beginnings in 1850 to the thriving institution it is today. The visuals evoked nostalgia and pride, weaving together decades of memories and milestones.

This was followed by a powerful address by Cardinal Oswald Gracias, whose words of wisdom, reflection, and heartfelt connection to his alma mater inspired the entire gathering. The Address by Manager, Rev. Fr. Richard Crasto was equally inspiring. He officially declared the 175 Years Celebration ‘OPEN’, setting the tone for the year-long festivities to follow.

Bringing in a splash of colour, rhythm, and youthful energy, the students of the Secondary Section then delivered a vibrant fusion dance performance. The performance, filled with exuberance and grace, was met with roaring applause and cheerful laughter as the compere added humour and light-heartedness, keeping the audience engaged.

The programme culminated with an address by the Principal, Sr. Sugandha Pereira, whose leadership and heartfelt commitment to every student is deeply appreciated.

Before concluding, the compere expressed gratitude to:

Cardinal Oswald Gracias for gracing the event,

All clergy, past and present, for being the spiritual foundation of the school,

Former and current teachers, for shaping young minds,

Alumni, for proving that “Once a Michaelite, always a Michaelite,”

Students, admin staff, and support team, for their tireless efforts in making the event a grand success,

And the audience, for their support, attention, and presence.

The programme concluded with the National Anthem, followed by a message of hope and inspiration for the future. As the curtain fell on this beautiful evening, the spirit of 175 Years of St. Michael’s echoed in every heart present — a spirit of excellence, compassion, service, and joy. Here’s to the next 175 years of shaping minds and hearts — just like St. Michael taught us.