FOURTEEN spots around the chapel at St Thomas More College, Sunnybank, are now home to the Stations of the Cross for students and staff to reflect on Jesus’ passion and Australia’s journey of reconciliation.
The Stations of the Cross were unveiled and blessed last month.
Acting principal Frank McCullagh is hopeful about the impact these Stations of the Cross will have on the campus environment.
“These stations through the unique blending of Christian and Indigenous traditions are a symbol of the hope we share as a college community, as we embrace the reconciliation journey with our First Nations people,” he said.
“They’re also a very visible reminder of the richness and diversity of our Indigenous culture, which we hope generations of future students at the college will appreciate and value.
“It’s our hope that they will always serve as a reminder of our shared humanity and our collective obligation as a Catholic college community to support and work towards an Australian nation underpinned by respect, dignity, justice for all.”
The Stations of the Cross were created by Indigenous artist Fiona Kulparntuwu Kerinaiua.
As a young girl, Fiona learnt her creativity and skills from her mother.
She practised traditional Tiwi painting methods, and was taught the meaning of the different crosshatches, lines and dots, along with the stories behind them.
Each station around the chapel combines elements of Christian symbolism with traditional Indigenous art and storytelling, creating a harmonious fusion of traditions that reflect the diverse tapestry of the college community.
