Our beautiful chapel
In February 2022 the Senior School pays tribute to the late, renowned and loved Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu in a commemoration liturgy. He is no stranger to St Mary’s while Anglican bishop of Johannesburg and a member of the St Mary’s board, and the Desmond Tutu Natural Science Centre, opened in October 2003, is named in his honour.
In July 2022 at the SMOGS Service of Lament and Hope the school community gathers to offer God our thanks and praise, to ask for intercession and guidance, and to rejoice in the diversity of our community. Reflecting on the past, the present and the future are Duduzile Mtshazo (mother of Nomonde, the first black girl to attend St Mary’s, class of 1983), Julie Herold (from the class of 1992) and Zani Mashinini (from the class of 1996). The Old Girls present a 12 Lady Ceramic Bowl to the school, symbolic of friendship and ubuntu – the drawing together and warmth afforded by the protective, circular shape of the vessel (the school body), and the joy, friendship and experiences gathered within. The 12 represents, among other things, the 12 years of the school journey.
Though you slipped from our grasp, we have not let go
Gifted by the matric class of 1982 during the Old Girls’ service October 1 2022, in memory of those St Mary’s Old Girls no longer with us – Hands – installation by Debbie Farnaby
Within the circular embrace of family, friendship and community, two hands clasp, symbolizing not only the strength and support we derive from one another, but the transformative power of kindness and human connection.
