Historical information

This altar cloth is one of a set of four of various sizes, embroidered and donated by a parent for the opening of the school's chapel. The chapel was completed in 1989 and officially dedicated 'in thanks for the work of J.R. Pascoe' in March 1990. Religious instruction has never formed part of the curriculum at Westbourne but Christian values have underpinned the school's identity since its very early days.

Recognising the importance of spirituality to the broader life of a school, Principal John Pascoe set about building a small chapel at the Truganina campus. In 1988, Reverend George DuRink was appointed as inaugural chaplain, in time to advise on the chapel design, and remained at the school for more than twenty years. Reverend DuRink's friendly, inclusive approach to ministering, drawing largely on his extensive knowledge of philosophy and ethics, and welcoming the many faiths and cultures that came to the school from the growing surrounding community, set the tone for the spiritual dimension of education at Westbourne.

An integral part of the fabric of the school, the chapel has been a place to gather for comfort and support during difficult times, a place for quiet reflection and at times a place for music and celebration.This altar cloth has historic significance as it is associated with the very beginning of the Westbourne chapel and was used in the chapel for many years.

Physical description

A rectangular piece of evenweave fabric with a fringed edge and cross stitched with a blue border around the entire piece and a yellow and green Westbourne logo facing the short edge at one end.