News | 15 May 2023

The annual Mothers’ Dinner at St John’s College was held on Saturday 6 May, and it was an unforgettable evening full of joy and appreciation for all things Motherhood! Before dinner, mothers, students, staff and guests gathered in the College Quadrangle for pre-dinner drinks and canapes.

This year the main meal and speeches were returned to the Dining Hall with the incorporation of the Vaughan Room with an audio-video link up to allow for more people to attend.

Mrs Cath Perrignon, mother of current students Lucas (Third year) and Greta (First year) gave the address to the College and provided a toast to the students. She reminded the students of what a child means to a mother stating: “Each one of you has the potential to make a difference in one way or another in the world, and it is overwhelming to think about all the wonderful things that you will achieve in your lifetime. May you never forget that you are also a piece of your mother’s heart, and that we are always with you.”

In his reply, the House Treasurer Lucas Perrignon emphasised just how much we should value our mothers. Lucas’ most poignant line was when he stated: “While there have been times that I have taken everything my mum does for granted, these last couple of years living out of home have made me realise just how lucky I am to have a mum like mine.”

The Rector, Dr Mark Schembri, spoke about the importance of strong and caring motherly figures in our lives. He cited actress Mary Mason: “A baby is something you carry inside you for nine months, in your arms for three years, and in your heart until the day you die.” He went on to say: “My Maltese grandmother lived through the most intense bombing campaign of World War 2 in the city of Valletta. She knew how to raise nine children on rations and scarcity – to raise children with hope, not fear.” This resonated with those present serving as a reminder of how mothers love unconditionally and without expectation.

The Rector also thanked everyone present for attending and encouraged them to cherish their time spent with family and loved ones as it is something not to be taken for granted. The evening ended with guests heading to the College Bar to continue the conviviality of the night. A huge thank you to all those mothers and students who attended.

The College wishes all College mothers a very Happy Mother’s Day.

(The Fathers’ Dinner will be held on Saturday 26 August 2023).

Please click here to review photos from the night (Password: Polding22).