Irene McCormack chapel, a collaboration of faith and community
29 February 2024
The opening of the new St Joseph’s Chapel at Irene McCormack College signals a milestone in the College’s commitment to faith and community.
Officiated by Perth Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB on Thursday, 30 November, attendees included Catholic Education Director of Religious Education, Rev Deacon Mark Powell, St Mary’s Cathedral Dean the Very Rev Sean Fernandez, St Mary’s Cathedral Manager Victor Hoa, Director of Vocations Fr Israel Quirit, Clarkson Parish Priest, Fr Dariusz Krzysztalowicz SDS,
Director of the Mary MacKillop Spirituality Centre Sr Maree Riddler, RSJ and former College principal Robert Marshall.
Representing the late Sr Irene McCormack, was her sister Bernadette.
College Principal Peter Collins said the evangelising mission of the school is to nurture and enrich the religious and spiritual formation of students through prayer and liturgical experiences, celebration of sacraments, faith formation, and social justice activities.
“St Joseph’s Chapel will provide regular opportunities for students and staff to build a prayerful relationship with Jesus while experiencing the richness of Catholic traditions and rituals,” Mr Collins said.
“The Chapel is a visible symbol that Christ is placed firmly at the centre of all our endeavours. It is an opportunity to strengthen the College’s connection to the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart and Sr Irene McCormack,” he added.
The journey of the new chapel began with the idea to transform a disused computer laboratory just off the library, into a sacred space that all can access.
Items from the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary Retreat House in Victoria Park and the former St Catherine Laboure Church Subiaco and the Sisters of Mercy Chapel; religious items were generously donated for use at the Chapel.
“These historical pieces have been given new life and carry a legacy of faith which will provide a place of worship for generations to come,” Mr Collins said.
