On Sunday, 29th July 2025, St. Aloysius Gonzaga Secondary School in Nairobi, Kenya, held a heartfelt celebration to honour their patron saint, St. Aloysius Gonzaga—a young Jesuit known for his deep faith, compassion, and unwavering service to the vulnerable. The event brought together students, staff, alumni, and special guests in a day filled with prayer, recognition, and renewed commitment to service.

The celebration began with a Eucharistic Mass presided over by Fr. Terry Charlton, SJ, the school chaplain, whose homily reminded the community of St. Aloysius’ call to selflessness, humility, and love for others, especially the poor and the sick. He reiterates, “St Als Students are formed to be ‘Men and Women for Others’ in keeping with the school motto: ‘To Learn, to love, and to serve’.

During the Mass, 14 students received the Sacrament of Baptism, marking the beginning of their journey in the Catholic faith. In addition, 4 students received their First Holy Communion. One student, who was previously a member of the Anglican Church, was formally received into the Catholic Church after completing the required preparation. These milestones reflect the students’ personal commitment and the spiritual impact of the school’s environment and the supportive faith community that surrounds it.

Following the Mass, the school took time to recognize and award students who performed exceptionally well in the 2024 KCSE examinations. Their academic excellence was celebrated not just as personal achievement but as a testament to the values instilled by the school and its patron saint. The recognition brought inspiration and motivation to the younger students as they witnessed the fruit of discipline, hard work, and faith.

In his speech, the Principal Md. Beatrice Wairimu Maina, reflected on the transformative role of St. Aloysius in shaping students into well-rounded individuals, academically grounded, spiritually mature, and socially responsible. She emphasized how the school’s Jesuit values continue to produce graduates who lead with heart and serve with purpose.

“The students who have benefited from the scholarship program have achieved great success academically, and many have earned more scholarships to attend universities and colleges all over the country and abroad. They have become leaders in their communities, inspiring others to pursue education and strive for excellence. The impact extends far beyond the students themselves.”

One of the most touching parts of the celebration was the return of alumni, whom the principal praised for their continued support and commitment to giving back to the institution that helped them achieve their dreams. She pointed out that some of the graduates have gone on to pursue careers in healthcare and community development. In a true spirit of service, they organized a medical camp and health fair for the current students.

These activities not only provided much-needed services but also demonstrated the lasting impact of St. Aloysius’ spirit of service among graduates of the school.

Adding to this spirit of global solidarity, students from Regis High School in New York City, a Jesuit partner school, joined in the celebrations. Their visit to the school was part of an ongoing cultural and spiritual exchange that fosters deep reflection on purpose, faith, and leadership.

The event was graced by the Guest of Honor, Mr. Hesbon Nyagaka, the Regional Deputy Director of Education, Nairobi, Kenya, who began his speech by reflecting on the day’s homily. He encouraged the students to remain grounded in strong values, give back to society, and stay away from drugs and harmful influences.

Mr. Nyagaka praised the school’s model of holistic education, and took a moment to appreciate the role of sponsors and parents, urging them to remain present and actively accompany the young people. “By showing up and working together,” he said, “we can ensure the holistic development of every child, so that no one is left behind because of poverty.”

He tied his message to the example of St. Aloysius Gonzaga, who gave up wealth, privilege, and comfort to serve others. Quoting the saint, he reminded the audience: “It is better to be a child of God than king of the whole world.” He concluded by inviting everyone to strive to be children of God—living lives of faithful diligence and compassionate service.

A key highlight of the celebration was the launch of the school’s Strategic Plan 2025–2029, which outlines the institution’s vision for growth, academic excellence, holistic student development, and deeper community engagement over the next five years. This strategic roadmap reflects the school’s ongoing commitment to shaping future leaders who embody the spirit of St. Aloysius.

Also present was Fr. Ismael Matambura, SJ, Director of the African Jesuit AIDS Network (AJAN), who came in solidarity with the school community, further affirming the network’s commitment to walking with young people and the vulnerable.

As the day drew to a close, it was clear that the legacy of St. Aloysius Gonzaga is alive and thriving at St. Al’s not just in the statues or stories, but in the actions, values, and aspirations of every student, staff member, and alum.

🕊️ May we continue to walk in the footsteps of St. Aloysius—leading with love, learning with purpose, and serving with joy.

For More information about School of Hope click the following Link: https://schoolofhopekenya.org/

By, Dennis Owuoche,

AJAN Communications Officer.