Iona stands with Ukraine, heartfelt artworks of 1000 paper cranes
07 June 2022
Iona Presentation College senior school students have created poignant artworks from more than 1000 paper cranes in a show of solidarity for the people of Ukraine.
Inspired by the novel, Sadako and the 1000 Paper Cranes, students from the Mosman Park school tasked themselves with making the origami paper cranes as they shared their hopes for peace for the people of Ukraine.
The novel tells the story of Sadako Sasaki who was prompted by the Japanese legend that a person who creates 1000 origami cranes would be granted a wish.
“As Catholics, we stand in solidarity with one another, and journey together through what are very challenging times for your families and your community, both here and abroad.”
Gemma Thomson, Iona Presentation College Dean of Mission and Catholic Identity
The 1000 cranes folded by Iona students were curated into several artworks, one of which was presented to the Ukrainian Catholic Community in May.
College Dean of Mission and Catholic Identity Gemma Thomson and Presentation Sister, Sister Anna Fewer PBVM, attended mass at the Ukrainian Catholic Church of St John the Baptist on 15 May to share the special gift with the parish community.
“As Catholics, we stand in solidarity with one another, and journey together through what are very challenging times for your families and your community, both here and abroad,” Miss Thomson told the congregation.
“Please be assured of our continued love and prayers for peace, and that we admire the strength, courage, and commitment to faith of the Ukrainian people.
“In educating our students it is our hope that they will be bearers of light and hope, and actively live out the Gospel in a time when this is so needed in our modern world.”
Parish Priest, Father Ihor Holovko expressed his gratitude on behalf of the parish, commenting on the uniqueness of the gift of art, but also prayer, love and support.
