By Herald Malaysia
IPOH — St Michael’s Institution came alive with joy, gratitude and Lasallian pride as students, teachers, alumni and guests gathered to celebrate Founders’ Day in honour of St John Baptist de La Salle, whose vision of education rooted in faith and compassion continues to inspire generations.
The celebration began on the morning of May 14 with a vibrant assembly that set the tone for a day filled with reflection, unity and thanksgiving. Distinguished guests were warmly welcomed, including Chan Kok Keong, chairman of the Perak Regional Lasallian Education Council. Michaelians stood proudly together as the national and state anthems rang through the school grounds, followed by morning prayers that invited the community to reflect on the deeper meaning of their Lasallian heritage.
In an inspiring address, Chan reflected on the extraordinary life and mission of St John Baptist de La Salle, the French priest and educational reformer who transformed education by making quality schooling accessible to poor and underprivileged children. His courageous vision of forming hearts and minds through faith, service and community continues to shape the identity and spirit of St Michael’s Institution today.
One of the highlights of the morning was the unveiling of the Founders’ Day banner by the school administration and invited guests — a symbolic gesture representing hope, resilience and the enduring unity of the Michaelian family. The celebration continued with a joyful cake-cutting ceremony, accompanied by cheers and laughter that echoed across the campus.
With great pride and enthusiasm, students and staff joined voices in singing the One Lasallian anthem, reaffirming their shared identity and mission. The celebration reached a spirited climax with the much-loved Michaelian Rally, where school spirit and fraternity shone brightly.
The spirit of thanksgiving continued on the actual Founders’ Day, May 15, with a solemn Eucharistic celebration presided over by Fr George Vaithynathan. In a heartfelt homily themed From Struggle to Joy, Fr George reminded the school community that struggles and hardships are part of every human journey — whether faced by students, teachers or workers — but that no challenge is ever wasted in God’s hands.
Drawing inspiration from the life of St John Baptist de La Salle, Fr George reflected on how God often uses trials to mould character, deepen faith and strengthen perseverance. He reminded the Michaelians that De La Salle always placed young people at the centre of his mission, believing firmly that every student deserved dignity, opportunity and hope.
In that same spirit, Fr George encouraged the school community to continue building lives rooted in discipline, faith, compassion and service. Through these values, he said, individuals discover the strength to overcome difficulties and the courage to journey towards hope and joy.
The celebration concluded with a brief but uplifting reflection by the chairman, who reaffirmed the school’s unwavering commitment to the Lasallian mission. Echoing the enduring Lasallian call to care for “the last, the lost and the least,” he reminded the Michaelians that true education is not merely about academic success, but about forming compassionate hearts willing to uplift and accompany others.
As the celebrations came to a close, the Michaelian family departed with renewed purpose and gratitude — inspired once more by the timeless vision of their founder and reminded that through faith, perseverance and service, every struggle can lead to joy, hope and transformation.
