Film celebrates spirit of Dominican Sisters
Schools
The buzz in the air was audible when a short film launched on March 30 at St Dominic’s Priory College in North Adelaide.
In Truth and Love was funded by the Dominican Sisters of North Adelaide and St Dominic’s Priory College, and showcases the history and evolution of the Dominican Sisters over the past 140 years.
St Dominic’s Old Scholars Association committee member Tina Gratto welcomed attendees to the launch.
“Today we gather to celebrate a remarkable milestone for all who have been touched by the Spirit of the Dominican Sisters,” Tina said. “As we reflect on our rich history, we are reminded of the unwavering commitment, love and faith that have guided the Sisters throughout the decades. This film is not merely a collection of images and stories, it is a tribute to the countless individuals who dedicated their lives to education, community service and a pursuit of truth.”
The school was founded in 1883 after Mother Rose Columba Adams was invited to bring a group of six Dominican Sisters from Stone, England to settle in North Adelaide to undertake nursing work. They arrived during August 1883 and after many challenges, opened St Dominic’s Priory College in Molesworth Street, North Adelaide, in February 1884. A boarding school for girls was set up and ran alongside the school until 1974. Up until 2006, boys were also welcomed at the day school from Reception to Year 2.
The college was led by Sr Jillian Havey OP AM from 1971 to 2019. As principal, she was the driving force behind several major redevelopments.
In Truth and Love takes viewers on a journey from the arrival of the Dominican Sisters.
“Right through to the vibrant community we’re all part of today,” Tina said. “It showcases the resilience, compassion and dedication that have inspired generations of students and educators alike. I invite you all to watch this film with open hearts and minds to reflect on the impact of the Sisters’ work in our lives and in our community, may it remind us of the values we hold dear and inspire us to carry forward their mission of love and truth.”
The idea to capture history in film form happened when In Truth and Love committee members Jo Duffy and Chris Purgacz were helping Sr Jill tidy the school museum for a fete.
“We started to think about all the history of St Dominic’s and decided it was important to record it in some way,” Jo said.
“One hundred and forty years is a long time to try and get down to 30 minutes but we hope it provides an idea of the resilience and the strength of the women who started it and how that has flown through into the community.”
Living Stories film makers Alison Rogers and Sasha Krieg were engaged to conduct interviews and produce the footage.
“I was really taken with the story,” Alison said. “The drive and determination of the Sisters who came out here, and the way that carried on through the generations. That spirit has really impacted lives, and it feels like there’s an ongoing drive to instil independence and strength among the students.”
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