Devastated by the 2011 earthquakes, the chapel was demolished. For seven years a temporary chapel was used, while funding was secured to enable a rebuild. The campus master plan was re-designed to place the chapel at the forefront of the school.
Rector Justin Boyle said the chapel is the college’s most important building.
“The return of the chapel is a clear statement of who we are and what we stand for, a Catholic, Marist College, and we welcome its return,” said Rector Boyle.
“The chapel is the soul of our school, connecting with our newly refurbished performing arts centre and in keeping with the historic buildings that dot our grounds. These two wonderful new buildings reflect our holistic approach to education, supporting boys to develop into well-rounded men,” he said.
Wilkie & Bruce Architects designed the new chapel in a collegiate gothic style to integrate with the original 1920s buildings of the campus.
“As well as looking like it’s always been there, the new building references the original by incorporating restored stained-glass windows, pews, crucifix and the ornate carved oak reredos from the old Chapel. Each of the twelve stained-glass windows tell their own story, with the centrepiece being the Matthew Paul Daly Memorial Window, which reflects the school’s origins and values in a depiction of Mary and the teenage Christ,” said architect and certified heritage professional Alec Bruce.
The chapel build was financed by more than 400 donors, all of whom have been invited to the chapel’s opening on Thursday.
A total of $3.5 million was required for the build, with community donations supported by the Society of Mary, the College’s Board of Proprietors and the College Foundation.
The Chapel of St Bede will be officially opened with a mass by Bishop Paul Martin.
