At Bishop Druitt College (BDC), history was made on Tuesday, October 17, 2023, as we celebrated the much-anticipated re-opening of our cherished Chapel of St Francis and St Clare. This momentous occasion was graced by an assembly of distinguished guests, including The Right Reverend Dr. Murray Harvey Bishop of the Grafton Diocese, The Very Reverend Naomi Cooke, BDC Council Chair Mr David Ford, Diocesan Registrar Mrs. Angela Mula, Reverend David Morgan, Foundation staff member Mrs. Linda Morgan, Aboriginal Artist Frances Belle Parker, Reverend Auntie Lenore Parker, Reverend Nathan Dean, and many other esteemed individuals.

Principal Nick Johnstone expressed his deep sense of honour and gratitude for the magnificent works completed in the Chapel. The remarkable work of artist Frances Belle Parker and the exceptional craftsmanship of X-Corp have breathed new life into this sacred space.

Mr. Johnstone extended his gratitude, saying, "I would like to express our deep thanks to The Very Reverend Naomi Cooke and The Right Reverend Dr. Murray Harvey for their spiritual guidance and unwavering support. Their presence has truly enriched this momentous occasion and solidified the Chapel's place at the heart of our college community."

Award winning Aboriginal artist Frances Belle Parker, who brought the Chapel's artwork to life, expressed her sentiments, saying, "As the artist, it was amazing to see this artwork come to life in this beautiful space. As soon as I entered, I felt a sense of calm and focus, and I hope this is also reflective to all who use the space." Ms Belle Parker’s work has been featured at the Cathedral in Grafton, on many public works projects in northern New South Wales and in 2021 her designs were featured on the sails of the Sydney Opera House.

A heart-warming aspect of the day was the active participation of our student leaders. These young ambassadors of Bishop Druitt College played important roles in ensuring that our distinguished guests and fellow students had a memorable experience. With poise and grace, they guided our guests through the heart of the college, offering a glimpse into the daily life and vibrant culture that our college stands for.

A highlight of the event was undoubtedly the moment when everyone, from students to esteemed guests, entered the Chapel together for the first time. It was a powerful symbol of unity and community, marking the start of a new chapter in Bishop Druitt College's history.

The re-opening of the Bishop Druitt College Chapel was indeed a historic day, especially as it took place during our 30th year. It served as a reminder of our commitment to nurturing not only the academic but also the spiritual and emotional wellbeing of our students. The Chapel is a place where our community can come together to reflect, celebrate, and find solace in times of need.

In the words of Reverend Nicole Hagon during her address, "May this Chapel be a space of deep connection and hope, for all who enter its doors."

The Artwork
​​Title: A Harmonious Awakening
By artist Frances Belle Parker - 2022

This design has been created to be a harmonious, reverent work honouring the life, faith and influence of Saint Clare and Saint Francis. It is they who stand in the centre of this work, surrounded by their followers. But as per the humble lives of both Saints, they are not elevated above other elements in the work.

Surrounding St Clare and St Francis there is a radiating glow from the sun. This represents warmth, hope and aspiration for the future. It’s designed to feel like a sunrise – an awakening and the start of new life.

Running across the work are green rolling hills of an undulating landscape, putting our natural surrounds, and particularly the surrounds of Bishop Druitt College at the forefront. Saint Francis loved the natural environment, and this is to honour him. He also, it is said, had the ability to preach to animals and many different animals including emus, kangaroos, and dingoes from our lands have been included at peace. The eagle represents a sense of us always being watched and guided through our life. The markings that run across the work represent our shared journeys in this life, across this land.

At the base of the work the ocean has been included as it is very important in grounding our environment. It is also a totem to the Gumbaynggirr people, the Traditional Owners of the land on which the school sits. Dolphins are depicted swimming amongst the waves as the great protectors they can be.

The sky is given great importance in this work. Five stars shine brighter than the others to represent our ancestors watching over us, guiding us and showing a strength of faith. The soft blue bloodlines in the sky are subtle but they are there, showing our connection to place and the importance of knowing and understanding your personal connection.

Across the work runs a red strip that represents earth and the grounding this presents. White crosses are included here to pay respect to all those who have gone before us as well as our shared journey in faith.

There are two door designs that lead into the chapel that complement the main design. These doors have been designed to pay homage to St Clare and St Francis, who stand welcoming all to enter. St Clare, adorned in purple has small figures on either side of her. These figures are also purple showing that they are under her wing and protection. She loves and cares for all people equally. There is a strong sense of inclusion, love and positivity that emanates from this Holy Saint.

The other door features St Francis and he is adorned in predominantly blue robes. Coming towards him are an emu, a kangaroo and a dingo - animals coming to him in unison and in peace. A bold halo design surrounds both St Francis and St Clare, indicating their sacred roles and unflinching devotion. Grounding both Saints is a black outline that ties them to the lands and people they love and care for. This too reflects their humility and devotion. Similarly, colours of the background are splashed through their robes, to show their connection to the lands.