On Tuesday, 16 June, the St Charles College community gathered in their Chapel for the dedication of a remarkable new stained-glass window. This is a significant milestone in the life of the College and a fitting expression of our 151-year heritage.
For generations, the Chapel has stood at the heart of St Charles College. It has been a place where boys have gathered to worship, reflect, celebrate, grieve, ask difficult questions, and seek the living God. Through changing seasons in the College’s history, the Chapel has also remained a constant reminder of the central place of faith within our community.
The new stained-glass installation forms part of a broader vision to preserve and strengthen the spiritual heart of the College. Following the careful and respectful return of Catholic artefacts that remained from the Chapel’s earlier history, the College sought to create a new focal point that would speak to Christians of all denominations while honouring the rich legacy of those who have gone before us.
Exceptional craftsmanship
Standing nine metres high, the window is both a work of exceptional craftsmanship and a powerful declaration of faith. Created by Daniel de Klerk of Art Glass Studio, it draws inspiration from the opening words of John’s Gospel: “In Him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
The dedication service was attended by students, staff, Board members, Old Boys, donors, and friends of the College. It was an opportunity not only to celebrate the completion of the project. It was also to give thanks for the generosity, vision, and commitment of all those who made it possible. Particular gratitude was expressed to the many benefactors. The St Charles College Old Boys Association, the Estates Team, Mothers Who Care, and the numerous members of the College community whose support helped bring the project to life. In dedicating the window, the College reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that faith remains central to the life and mission of St Charles College. The window also serves as a visible reminder that Christ remains at the centre of all they do and all they hope to be.
Long after the present generation has passed through these halls, the light streaming through this glass will continue to tell the same story. It is that God’s faithfulness endures, that His light still shines, and that hope is found in Jesus Christ. May all who enter this Chapel in the years ahead, students, staff, parents, Old Boys, and visitors alike, be encouraged by its message and be reminded of the enduring presence of God within this place. – Mr Ross Ducasse (Chaplain)
