A Century Built on Faith: St. Philip Neri School Celebrates 100 Years Since the Laying of Its Foundation Stone

Last weekend, our parish community gathered for a truly momentous occasion—the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the laying of the foundation stone at St. Philip Neri School, formerly known as St. Ciaran’s. It was a day steeped in gratitude, memory, and hope.

One hundred years ago, the original foundation stone was solemnly blessed and laid by the Most Reverend Michael Kelly, DD., Archbishop of Sydney, marking the beginning of what would become a century-long legacy of Catholic education, faithful formation, and service to generations of families. Standing on the same grounds a century later, we gave thanks for every student, teacher, parent, and parishioner who has contributed to that ongoing mission.

A Celebration Rooted in Prayer

The centenary Mass was beautifully presided over by Fr. Vincent Nguyen and concelebrated by Fr. Stephen Wayoyi, whose reverence and joy reminded us why we gather: not simply to commemorate history, but to give praise to God, the foundation of all foundations.

The church was full—students in their uniforms, teachers seated shoulder-to-shoulder with families, alumni coming back to familiar pews, and parishioners whose faces carry decades of memory. Their presence spoke volumes. For many, St. Philip Neri is not just an institution but a spiritual anchor, a home where faith was nurtured and futures were built.

During the liturgy, Fr. Vincent invited us to reflect on the original vision of the school’s founders: that Catholic education is more than academic formation—it is formation of the soul. He reminded us that the past century is not merely a timeline of events, but a tapestry woven by countless acts of love, sacrifice, generosity, and service.

Barbecue, Community, and the Joy of Being Together

After Mass, the celebration continued in the school grounds. The air filled with the sounds of laughter, sizzling barbecues, and eager children chasing one another beneath the evening sky. Teachers and parents tended the grills, while parish volunteers—some of whom were once St. Ciaran’s students themselves—served food with a smile.

It felt like a family reunion. Stories of “back in my day” mingled with dreams of what the next hundred years might bring. Children played games under the watchful eye of grandparents who once attended classes in the same buildings. Former students reconnected with old classmates. Teachers shared humorous anecdotes from years of service. It was an evening of camaraderie, shared memory, and heartfelt celebration.

Looking Forward with Gratitude

As the sun set, the simple truth of the moment became clear: a school is more than brick, mortar, and history—it is a living community. The foundation laid a century ago was not just stone; it was faith, intention, and hope. And that foundation has been renewed over and over again through the prayers, service, and commitment of all who have walked these grounds.

St. Philip Neri School continues to thrive, forming young hearts and minds, educating in wisdom, nurturing in love, and guiding toward Christ. Our celebration was not merely about looking back, but about looking forward—trusting that God, who began this good work, will continue to bring it to fruition.

As we mark this centenary milestone, may we do so with thanksgiving for the past, courage for the present, and hope for the future. And may the example of our parish motto—Together, in Christ’s love, for others—remain at the heart of all we do.