The Loreto community will embark on a year-long celebration in 2025 marking 150 years since Mother Gonzaga Barry and her nine companions arrived in Melbourne, later settling in Ballarat in May 1875. Source: Pathways.
Their journey, grounded in faith and a profound sense of purpose, laid the foundation for what would become an enduring legacy of education, community, and leadership through the Loreto tradition in Australia and Southeast Asia.
When Mother Gonzaga Barry was asked why she took on the challenge of leading the group of Sisters to Australia, despite the emotional and physical toll of leaving her beloved Ireland, she said: “If I had not agreed to go, I would have been unfaithful to grace.”
The Loreto tradition, inspired by Mother Gonzaga Barry’s vision, has grown exponentially over time, encompassing six Loreto schools, along with Bayview College in Portland and John XXIII College in Perth.
To mark this significant milestone, the Loreto schools have collaborated on a travelling exhibition, which they have been busily preparing throughout the year.
This exhibition will feature a diverse range of creative works, including a revised version of the centenary play written by Sr Veronica Brady, adjusted for contemporary audiences.
Other artistic works are in production and will be released throughout 2025 as part of the travelling exhibition.
The celebration will be underpinned by the tagline “Being Faithful to Grace”, which is reflected in the artwork designed by former Loreto College Ballarat student Evie Davidson, a Dja Dja Wurung woman, to mark this occasion.
The Victorian Loreto Sisters recently gathered with the Loreto Centre staff to mark the preliminary launch of 150 Years of Loreto in Australia and South East Asia.
Sr Sandra Perrett ibvm shared a preview of the 2025 events and creative projects the Loreto Schools will bring to life for next year’s exhibition.
As part of the celebration, several Sisters and Loreto Ministries’ team members tried their hand at baking a loaf of Loreto Brown Bread following the original recipe created by Sr Bernada ibvm.
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Loreto community set to celebrate 150 years in Australia and South East Asia (Loreto via Pathways)
