Garden of St. Irene Dedication
Garden of St. Irene Dedication
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On Saturday, October 18, St. Sebastian’s kicked off Homecoming with the dedication of the Garden of St. Irene, located on the newly renovated terrace in front of the Elcock Arts Center. The Garden’s centerpiece is a statue of St. Irene, honoring the Guild Presidents and all our devoted mothers — past, present, and future. The Guild of St. Irene has been nurturing the St. Sebastian’s community since it was established in 1949, fostering a sense of community and faith with love, sacrifice, and strength.
Head of School Brendan Sullivan welcomed everyone, most notably the 14 Guild of St. Irene Presidents and all mothers in attendance. He reflected on how St. Irene removed the arrows from St. Sebastian and helped nurture him back to health, just as all Arrow mothers are there for their sons. Current Guild President Wendy Thurmond P’25,’28, along with past presidents Dorothy Daly P’88,’92 and Mary Corcoran P’89, unveiled the statue. Senior Priest Fr. John Arens offered a blessing and opening prayer, noting the sculptor, Steve Shaheen, also created the statue of Mary in the Oratory and the bronze images in the Stations of the Cross.
Following heartfelt remarks from Wendy Thurmond about what an honor it is to serve as President of the Guild, Brendan Sullivan added that many Chapel Speeches are given in tribute to students’ mothers. He recalled one recent speech where he noticed the mother standing beneath the stained-glass image of St. Irene. The image reminded him of a boxer with a manager in his corner—encouraging him to keep going after each round, offering praise and support but also sending him back into the ring. Similarly, mothers provide unwavering support and encouragement, always in their sons’ corner. The dedication concluded with a beautiful closing prayer offered by our Chaplain, Fr. Christopher Boyle.
Guests had a wonderful time reminiscing before enjoying the other Homecoming festivities. All are welcome to visit the Garden of St. Irene located at the Elcock Arts Center terrace.
