The Vicar's Sash

The Vicar’s Sash is one of the most treasured symbols of the St. Michael’s Institution Catholic Society, embodying leadership, faith, and continuity. It was not simply created as an accessory, but as a tradition meant to be passed down from president to president, linking generations of student leaders under a single emblem of responsibility and service.

The idea of the sash was first born on a faithful Sunday, 14 September 2025. Three student leaders—Collin Noel, the Vice President; Michael Neehraj, the Assistant Secretary; and Joachims John, the President—came together with the vision of establishing something meaningful that would outlast their own term. They desired a symbol that would reflect not only the authority of the president but also the heavy yet noble responsibility of carrying the burden of Christ in guiding the Catholic Society.

Work on the sash began quickly, with its making officially starting just four days later, on 18 September 2025. The crafting of the sash was no ordinary task, for it involved several hands, each contributing to its spiritual and symbolic depth. The embroidery, carefully woven with designs representing the Catholic faith, was done by Madam Lee Li Suan, whose delicate work gave life to the sash’s sacred symbolism. The final stitch that sealed the sash into completion was performed by Mr. Rhaman, ensuring that it would stand the test of time. Their efforts were supported by Madam Dominica and Madam Felicia Komathy, whose guidance and aid helped bring the vision into reality.

At last, the sash was completed on 21 September 2025. More than just cloth and thread, it had become a living tradition. Its every detail—the embroidery, the stitches, the shared effort behind its making—stood as a testament to the faith and dedication of those who brought it into being.

The Vicar’s Sash is now a central feature of the society’s handover ceremony. During the solemn moment, the teacher advisor places the sash on the newly elected president, signifying the conferral of leadership and the trust of the community. At the same time, the outgoing president pins a new pin onto their successor, further marking the passing of responsibility from one leader to another.

Thus, the sash is not only an article of clothing but a sacred emblem of service. It reminds every president of the Catholic Society that leadership is not about power, but about carrying the cross with humility, guiding with faith, and upholding the traditions of St. Michael’s. From its humble beginnings in 2025, the Vicar’s Sash has become a lasting legacy—one that binds every generation of leaders to the same mission of love, sacrifice, and devotion.