Dana Scully strengthens her community

There are times when we attend an event and remember the speeches. There are times when we remember the ceremony. And then there are those rare occasions when what stays with us is the spirit behind it all.

“Sonja Scherer’s recent visit to St John Bosco College Engadine was one of those occasions.

Dana Scully recently created a NAIDOC-inspired liturgical stole and chasuble to present to the principal celebrant at an assembly on the final day of Reconciliation Week.The handmade clerical vestments were not only beautiful, but they also represented a uniting of faith and culture.

Chair of SSR, Scherer told secondary students that “the inclusion of Buru Buru, whale totem of the Dharawal people, was profoundly meaningful. Symbols carry stories, and stories carry people. For First Nations peoples, symbols are a way to keep knowledge alive and connect across generations. They remind us that we are part of something much larger than ourselves”.

“To see that symbol woven into a stole to be worn in the spiritual life of the school and parish was deeply moving. There was no sense of performance or obligation. The school community embraced it warmly and naturally. Students, teachers, and parish members recognised that they were witnessing something genuine.

The blessing of the stole was not simply the blessing of a garment. It felt like an acknowledgement that First Nations culture has a rightful and valued place within the life of the school and the faith community - people choosing to honour stories that may not be their own.” Scherer said.

This is a demonstration of reconciliation. It is strongest when it grows through relationships. It grows through trust when people are willing to step forward, not because they must, but because they genuinely care.

Dana Scully created an opportunity for people to see Aboriginal culture not as something separate, but as something that enriches and strengthens the community around it. Her contribution will continue to inspire conversations and connections long into the future. 

St John Bosco parish extends an invite to attend their collaborative NAIDOC Mass on Sunday, 26th July at 9:30am at the Shrine, 46 Waratah Rd, Engadine.

This special celebration is more than just a gathering; it is a vital expression of the community’s commitment to cultural inclusion, awareness, and reconciliation. The principal celebrant will be wearing the NAIDOC-inspired liturgical stole and chasuble.

By coming together across Schools, Parish, and the Dunlea Centre, they will be celebrating the rich history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and honor the beautiful diversity that strengthens our entire community.