Our School is Named after Monsignor John Uyen
Monsignor Uyen also known as the "tobacco priest" was appointed to Blessed Sacrament Parish in June 1958. He came to Blessed Sacrament from Delhi "the tobacco belt", where he had just finished building a new church, rectory and hall. Monsignor Uyen had served in Wallaceburg as an assistant priest and was not a real stranger to this area. Upon his arrival Monsignor Uyen very quickly endeared himself to all who had the pleasure to know him. He was very interested in counseling and soon had a steady stream of people who came seeking his help and understanding. Monsignor Uyen was very strong in urging people to more prayer especially before the Blessed Sacrament and for several years formed a group for perpetual adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.
Monsignor Uyen always claimed that he had no head for figures, administration or building and yet he was called upon in God’s own devine providence to rebuild Blessed Sacrament Church after it was devastated by fire in January 1966. Also at this same time, Monsignor Uyen was given the task of steering the parish through the changes and transitions of Vatican ll. In June1967, Monsignor Uyen was moved back to the "tobacco belt" in the London area where he later died in November 1968. Monsignor Uyen Catholic School perpetuates his memory in our community.
History of Our School
Monsignor Uyen School was named for Monsignor John Uyen, who came to Canada from Holland in 1913. He served as a priest in Chatham and Wallaceburg. The school was named after him because of his extensive contributions to education. The library was built with a unique design. The triangular-shaped library is very large and has six classrooms opening onto it. A theatre room was built in the library, as well as study carrels and a loft. The theatre was later converted to a teacher work room, and more recently the resource department was moved into it because of its size. The library also houses our computer lab. Murals have been added to the library to enhance its environment. We also have several laptops on a cart which is available for student use within the classroom. Our Library houses over 8,000 books. Our Gym has been renovated and has a stage on which we perform school plays. For all this, all the students at John Uyen School are very proud. With each day we grow bigger, with great teachers, and great students who are always there to help .