Marist Brothers 100 years Celebrations Open with Mass

Apia, Samoa – 29 July 2024 – Hundreds of members of the Marist Brothers Old Pupils Association (MBOPA) joined Mass this morning to open the celebration of the 100 years of the Marist Brothers schools that have produced many of Samoa’s significant leaders in all walks of life.

The opening Mass was held at the iconic Lepea Parish Cathedral that was well attended by the former students from Samoa, American Samoa and former students representing various  MBOPA affiliate associations in New Zealand and Australia. Among the attendees were the former Prime Minister and Head of State, Tupua Tamasese Efi and several senior members who are well into their eighties.

Former Prime Minister and Head of State, Tupua Tamasese Efi, Rev. Auatama Esera – the Chairman of the EFKS and some former students after Mass.

After Mass, the celebration changed to a cultural welcome with the Ava Ceremony at the Centennial Hall at Alafua.

The weeklong celebrations roll on with a Marist Procession/March Pass on Beach Road at 0900 tomorrow morning (Tuesday 30 July) and a Marist Forum for all MBOPA members to look at ways to “Enhance Marist Education in Samoa.”

The welcome Ava Ceremony

A variety of events from day to day will include various competitions between the houses such as the Pacific Ezy Va’a Outrigger Regatta, Darts & Pool Games, Marist Bazaar & Career Day, an Online Tausala Fundraiser, the MBOPA Centennial Golf Tournament 2024 and a Marist Music Festival.

The closing events will include a Corporate Dinner with the Marist Excellence Service Awards on Saturday with the celebrations to close with a Mass and farewell toonai on Sunday.

Funds raised in the centennial celebrations will go assisting Marist education and facilities in Samoa.

For the day to day Programme of events details and venues, go to: https://talamua.com/mbopa-centennial-celebrations-1924-2024/