The sisters of the Presentation Order with Archbishop Costelloe paying homage to the newly erected Nano Nagle statue in the Presentation Garden (photo by Natashya Fernandez).

On Friday 2 June, staff, students and distinguished guests gathered at Iona Presentation Primary School for a Thanksgiving Mass and Garden Blessing in celebration of the Presentation Sisters 110 years of service and dedication to Iona.

The morning was spent recognising the incredible presence the Sisters have had at the school for so many years, and thanking them for their unwavering support and dedication that has touched the lives of so many in the Iona school community.

Also recognised on the day was the founder of the Presentation Sisters, Nano Nagle, whose mission to bring light to the world was seen through her endless passion and commitment to helping the less fortunate, and whose message is lived on through the Sisters today and the values they have instilled in the students of Iona.

The Mass was celebrated by Archbishop Timothy Costelloe and concelebrated with Frs James D’Souza, Chris Ross and Rodrigo Ponte, with the blessing of a ‘Presentation’ Garden and abstract mosaic.

Archbishop Costelloe thanked the Presentation Sisters for the amazing contribution they have given with their presence not only to the school, but to the church in Western Australia.

“Today especially, we celebrate this Mass in which we have a chance to come closer to Jesus and, through him, closer to each other. To reflect on just how important the Presentation Sisters, and the spirit which animates them has been and continues to be for this school,” he said.

Catholic Education Western Australia joins Iona Presentation Primary School in thanking the Presentation Sisters as they hand over responsibility for the school to Archbishop Costelloe.

Presentation Sisters Western Australia Congregation Leader, Sr Kathleen Laffan, said that it was a privilege to be present at the Mass and celebrations.

“We are here today to celebrate the 110 years that we have journeyed together, Presentation Sisters, students, parents and the wider community. All in the footsteps of our found, Nano Nagle.
“I hope the newly erected statue of Nano will be an inspiration to all students, staff and parents in the years ahead” she said.

Congregation leader of the Presentation Sisters in Western Australia, Sr Kathleen Laffan, with Archbishop Costelloe and Iona Presentation Primary School Principal Jennifer Anderson (photo by Natashya Fernandez).

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