The image below is offered as a meditation, a reminder of our humanity. The image of the Madonna and Child transcends its locality.In a Christian context, it represents Mary and Jesus. However, on a closer look, we can see ourselves in the image. Life is lived in a community with others: one day, we are the child in the image, and the next day we are the adult. The image is now largely hidden unless you frequent the Junior School or the print room. In the Senior School it is above the door of Ms Quix’s office. When the entrance in Athol Street was still in use, this was the first image that greeted parents, girls and other visitors.

Exposure to the elements has resulted in the colours fading, broken fingers, and some scratches. None of this takes away from the beauty of the image and the story it tells. It adds a depth of meaning, that even if we are hurt, we can still reach out to one another.

The image of the Madonna and Child is a visual reminder of our school values of love and community. The family is the first community to which children are introduced. It is also where they learn to love God, neighbour, and self. It is where they learn botho: the idea that their humanity finds fulfilment only in community with others.

REVD RAKGADI KHOBO
CHAPLAIN