In the Ceremony, the Rector of the College, Jose Maria Aguerri explained how Francisco Javier Lopeandía, by vocation a priest and teacher, had helped to form around 4.000 students in Panamá, many of whom have come to occupy high public office and also high places in the private sector during these four decades.

For his part Mr. Navarro, the mayor, said he was honoured to be able to offer to Fr. Lopeandia this recognition in the name of the citizens of the capital city. He well deserves it for all the fruits of his work among the youth of Panama.

Lopeandía, on his part, said that he accepted “with humility” this recognition, although “I don’t deserve it” and added that it was a recognition of the work of the OAR priests, the teachers at the college , the students and parents who “are always there” giving their support.

Francisco Lopeandía, naturalized Panamanian, studied psychology at the University of Panama. His thesis was” Reading comprehension in aid of a growing vocabulary” is highly valued, “ especially at this time when the difficulties in understanding texts give the thesis a modern day value”, Aguerri emphasised.

Over and above this the Vice Rector and educator, the Navarra priest chairs the Commission that guarantees the Educational Quality of the Colegio San Agustín, a process developed with the support of the organization of private schools of Mexico.

Thanks

Fr. Lopeandía, in an emotional voice and in recognition of his work in Panama gave thanks to God first and foremost for being able to be there for this special moment; to the mayor for having considered him worthy of the distinction of receiving the Keys of the City and for coming in person to the College to hand them over: to his Recollect brothers José María Aguerri and Benjamín Ayechu for all the silent hard work done to receive this award and to Manuel Jose Paredes for being the man in between; all the religious present and all who had worked with him in the past; to the Recollect educators and teachers past and present he wanted his deepest gratitude to reach them for their dedication, sacrifice and service to all the students; to the parents of all generations, especially this group which has understood how to be there for every special occasion.

To the Parents Associations for their positive dedication and availability; to the ex pupils and to the present ones: “you are the reason for our life. You are the best explanation and witness of this decoration which I offer you with all my heart”. He reminded them of the great joy he had felt so many times at the warm welcome he had from so many ex men and women students in their work place. He ended with a phrase found on the internet: “If the only prayer I said in life was “thank you”, that would be enough.