Sisters Renata, Valdete, Janina, Luiza Margarida, Zulmira, Odete, Teresinha, Adalzira, Helena, Lúcia, and Zezé represented the Congregation with gratitude and affection at the Solemn Mass of Thanksgiving, presided over by Dom Orani Tempesta. The celebration brought together staff, students, alumni, and families in a moment filled with faith, emotion, and profound gratitude.
Head teacher Alexandre Alves reflected on the school’s century-long journey and the values that continue to shape its community today. We are pleased to share his words:
“We are gathered here today not only to mark a date on the calendar, but also to celebrate a century of life, unwavering faith, transformative education and relentless service that has flourished in the heart of Cosme Velho.
The history of Colégio Sion does not begin with its 100 years at this address, but with the seed planted by the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion. Founded by Fathers and Brothers Alphonse and Théodore Ratisbonne, the Congregation arrived in Brazil in 1888. The first school in Rio de Janeiro opened in March 1889, but the Congregation faced immense challenges, including outbreaks of yellow fever which caused the death of sisters and the temporary closure of the school. It reopened in 1891, but closed again in October of the same year after the deaths of two sisters and a student.
Despite these difficulties, the mission prevailed. In 1908, Sion reopened on Rua São Salvador, but the rising number of pupils soon meant that a new, permanent home was needed.
Under the leadership of Mother Dieudonnée and with the fundamental assistance of the Abbot of the Monastery of São Bento, the purchase of this property was finalised. The first part of the construction was completed in 1925 under the direction of Mother Loys, consolidating Colégio Sion in our beloved Cosme Velho, the result of this hundred-year journey of resilience.
And, with a heart for helping others, in 1935, the school welcomed 150 children in need from the neighbourhood, into the house next door, number 120. This attitude of service, which we call ‘prophetic’, remains here today and in all Sion units in Brazil, through the philanthropic scholarships we offer to our community and our social work. After the educational reform of 1971, with the joy of welcoming everyone, the school, which until then had only accepted girls, became co-educational.
Our school is the living expression of the Sion charism, summarised in the inspiring words of our founder, Father Théodore: ‘Education at Sion will be based on mutual trust, simplicity, and respect for differences.’ This is not just a motto; it is a compass that has guided every sister, educator and student for over 100 years.
What makes Sion College unique is the way in which a blend of humane and Catholic education has gently yet firmly shaped generations of young people. As we celebrate our centenary, we recognise the enduring power of the charism we have inherited, which is based on four essential pillars that underpin all our pedagogical practice: Dialogue, listening, welcoming and discipleship.
This pillar invites us to build bridges. At Sion, dialogue is the foundation of our search for truth, mutual understanding and fraternal coexistence. It encourages open discussion, respect for different perspectives, and knowledge-sharing. It is in dialogue that our commitment to peace is manifested.
Listening is a fundamental attitude of openness to others and appreciation of life. At Sion, listening means understanding not just the words themselves, but also what lies behind them, whether in the classroom, in interpersonal relationships, or in the community. Through this deep listening, we demonstrate our respect for the uniqueness of each student and educator, ensuring their voices and perspectives are valued.
Being Sion means providing unconditional welcome. This pillar embodies appreciation of the whole person. It guarantees that each individual feels accepted and welcomed, with all their differences and origins – whether social, cultural, ethnic or religious – and promotes an environment of security and belonging. This is essential for full development.
This pillar represents the foundation of our pedagogical excellence and preparation for the future. Being a disciple means having curiosity and a passion for discovery, as well as an untiring drive to seek out knowledge. It means equipping young people with the discipline and humility necessary for continuous learning, so they can translate their knowledge into effective service and solidarity in the world.
At this solemn moment, I would like to express our deepest gratitude to the sisters of Our Lady of Sion. We thank them for their sacrifice and dedication, and above all for preserving their charism for over a century. You are the living memory, the soul and the inspiration of this college. Within the Congregation, we would also like to thank Sister Renata, who is with us here in Brazil and throughout the American continent. We would also like to thank the Congregational Leadership Team, led by Superior General Sister Oonah, for all their support.
We offer our deepest gratitude to our beloved students and alumni, and to the families who have placed their trust in Sion over the generations. You are the reason for our existence and the living continuity of this charism.
Our deep appreciation also extends to all teachers and collaborators, past and present. You are the daily builders of this legacy; you transform the Congregation’s ideals into educational practice in classrooms and corridors, and in every conversation and dialogue.
Distinguished representatives of the authorities and all guests: your participation and support confirm the relevance of Sion’s legacy to our community and society.
Colégio Sion is not only in the Cosme Velho neighbourhood, but is also part of the history, soul and growth of this community. Our relationship is symbiotic: the school welcomed the neighbourhood, and the neighbourhood embraced the school. Together, we have witnessed the transformation of this region, and for 100 years we have remained a beacon of knowledge and hope amid the beauty and contradictions of Rio de Janeiro.
As we celebrate this centenary, we are called to deep reflection. This anniversary is an opportunity to give thanks, but our mission continues. At 100 years old, we look back with gratitude and forward with vigour and hope. Our goal is for Colégio Sion to continue to be a beacon of light, knowledge and values for many centuries to come, preparing students for the complex challenges of the future while always being guided by faith and the belief that truth is built on dialogue and acceptance.
I will conclude with the wise words of our founder, Father Théodore Ratisbonne, which sum up the spirit of this celebration perfectly:
‘We must look to the past to give thanks and to learn, but we must prepare for the future by living the present intensely.’
Let us live this moment of celebration intensely, with the joy of faith and a renewed commitment to Sion’s education. May God bless Colégio Sion, the sisters, our community, Brazil and each one of you.”
Alexandre Alves
Head teacher
Colégio Nossa Senhora de Sion, Rio de Janeiro
