On March 18 Christopher Columbus High School celebrated the 200th Anniversary of the Marist Brothers in the true Marist way – with family. Explorers of all generations and their families, along with the families of many faculty and staff members, attended the Marist Brothers 200th Anniversary Picnic, more than 1,600 people in all.
The highlight of the event was during the short prayer service when our Columbus Marist Brothers were honored and presented with a beautiful 200th Anniversary cake, courtesy of Cakes by Rosa. Several Marist Brothers, as well as teachers and alumni, judged the pig roast competition, which involved 22 teams roasting full-size pigs in “Caja Chinas” (large roasting boxes). The winning team was made up of members from the CCHS class of 1991: Henry Aquino, Santiago Eljaiek, Armando Rubio, and Luis Prieto. Attendees also partook in the roasted pig tastings and enjoyed a lunch provided by Hole in The Wall.
With great food, a live band, dominoes and plenty of games and activities for children, the event provided lots of fun. By far, most of the attendees said the best part of the event was having the opportunity to meet and spend time with so many Columbus families of all ages. Creating a strong sense of community and family spirit has long been a pillar in the Marist Brothers’ educational philosophy. The family picnic was the perfect way to celebrate their milestone anniversary.
The event was organized by a committee of several teachers and alumni led by Pete Marti and Carlos Gonzalez, with the help of the school’s alumni association.
About the Marist Brothers – On January 2, 1817, a young Fr. Marcellin Champagnat officially formed the Marist Brothers congregation in rural France. Their mission was the same then as the Marist Brothers’ mission is today – to make Jesus known and loved through the education of young people, especially those most neglected.
About Christopher Columbus High School – Christopher Columbus High School is a Catholic, college preparatory, all-male, secondary school open to all students without regard to race, religion, or national origin. Established in 1958, the school fosters three distinct traditions: the pursuit of academic excellence, the heritage of Catholic education, and the unique spirit and mission of the Marist Brothers which aims to nurture the growth of the whole student in heart, mind and body.
