By Ms Marilyn Dias for BIS Mumbai

St Joseph’s High School, Wadala celebrated Peace Day with unity and enthusiasm across all sections, spreading Gandhiji’s message of truth, non-violence, and harmony. 

The day began with a prayer and the Peace Pledge over the intercom, followed by a silent Peace Rally organised by Tr Smitha, Head Teacher of the Primary Section, and her team of teachers. Students carried placards with inspiring slogans, creating awareness within and outside the school. The Pre-Primary Section, guided by Tr Sadira, their coordinator, crafted creative wall hangings and peace cut-outs with thoughtful messages. 

In the Secondary Section, the celebration was graced by Fr Peter Gonsalves, our Rector Fr James Nigrel, and our Principal Fr Solomon Rapol. The programme began with the Guard of Honour led by Sir Raj and Tr Cressieda, followed by the lighting of the lamp and compering by Tr Marilyn, who steered both the programme in the hall and the human chain on the grounds, in coordination with Mrs Nagaprabha Rao and Fr Solomon Rapol. A reflective prayer service was conducted by Trs Cleopatra, Benzi and Sir Atul, and the Chief Guest was introduced by Tr Pavita. Students presented a graceful dance performance under the guidance of Tr Bijoya, while the Vote of Thanks was proposed by Tr Placida. 

In his address, Fr. Peter Gonsalves engaged the students with simple yet thought-provoking GK questions—about units of measure for land, milk, grains, and power—before asking: “How do we measure human beings?” When students struggled to answer, he reminded them that people are best measured by the way they treat each other. Urging them to uphold Gandhian principles of non-violence, he called on students to refrain from bullying, teasing, and violence, and instead embrace respect, kindness, and peace. 

Behind the scenes, Teacher Flavia and Counsellor Ms Bhavya captured the event through photography and videography, while Mrs Namrata and Sir Shaun managed the technical support. The hall arrangements were efficiently handled by Sir Louis and his team. 

A highlight of the day was the grand Human Chain for Peace, organised by Sirs Bobby and Somnath in coordination with Fr Rapol and Mrs Nagaprabha Rao, uniting students from the Pre-Primary, Primary, and Secondary Sections. The celebrations concluded with students penning their personal peace messages on sticky notes and displaying them on the Peace Wall, creating a collective expression of hope and harmony. 

The Peace Day celebration truly embodied the Josephite spirit – that peace begins with each one of us, and together, we can build a more peaceful world.