A Legion of Mary Meeting

The Legion of Mary is an Association of the Catholic Laity which draws its inspiration from the immense intercessory power of its Heavenly Patroness. Its main object is the assistance of the clergy in their apostolic work of saving and sanctifying souls. The Legion is built upon devotion to Mary; the Legion aspires after her, it tries to emulate her, to obey her wishes and to promote devotion to her at all times.

The Legion of Mary was well established prior to 1957, the year of the first Annual Report. During its early days there existed three Praesidia. The Senior Praesidium was confined to past pupils. 'Our Lady Cause of Our Joy' Praesidium catered for the Senior pupils of the College while the third Praesidium, 'Mary of the Presentation' , catered for the spiritual and apostolic development of the younger boys. Later in 1958 a new Praesidium, ' Mary, Model of Youth' , was established. Members who were past students conducted a youth club for Catholic Boys who had left school and did not have the opportunity of pursuing secondary education, in order to continue their Religious Education.

The Newly Professed with his Lordship (1966). L - R: Br. Bernadine Durity, Br. Luke Samuel, Most Rev. Dr.W. Fitzgerald, O.P.,Br. Benedict Talyor

In 1959 M. Taylor (now Bro. Benedict) wrote, "The boys in the four Praesidia at Presentation College try to live lip to the ideals of a Legionary. They believe and try to make others realise that full life is obtained only by co-ordinating the natural way with the supernatural. Their loyalty and dedication are a reward to those who have trained them. Their labour is a noble one".

The works of the Legion include assisting in the work of the Parish, visiting the sick at home and the hospital, teaching catechism in Private and non-Catholic Schools, promoting devotion to the Rosary and conducting the Rosary during the lunch break during the school term. In this way we try to take an active part in the spreading of Christ's Kingdom here on earth.

Rev. Fr. Jubrasingh addressing the College boys during the celebration of His first Mass in his "alma mater"

Over the years though, the number of Legionaries has declined, the commitment of the students and staff to the service of their fellow men and women has remained strong.