On Friday, June 2nd, the Saint Maur Community celebrated the annual graduation mass at Sacred Heart Cathedral. This celebration marked the end of 144 years and the beginning of our 145th year as the oldest international school in Japan and the third oldest in the world, as well as being the only Catholic international school in the Diocese of Yokohama, and the only co-educational Catholic international school in the Kanto Plains region. 

The celebration was of special significance as the Apostolic Nuncio to Japan, Archbishop Chennoth, read the document conferring the Benemerenti Award from Pope Francis to Miss Jeanette K. Thomas, along with the insignia.

This was awarded by the Holy Father to Miss Thomas in recognition of her services over 46 years to Catholic education in Yokohama. The Archbishop was accompanied by his secretary, Monsignor Pawel Obiedzński. Father Kizito con-celebrated, and the homily was given by Canon Andrew Dangerfield of Christ Church. The music was provided by the Saint Maur Choir and the Saint Maur Adult Enrichment Program Parents Singing Group. Both the Graduation and the Papal award made this end of year a real celebration for the local Church and our school community.