Unveiling the Restored Villa Maria College Grotto
On 18 November 1947, one of Christchurch's major tragedies occurred with the Ballantynes Department Store fire. 41 people sadly lost their lives in the blaze, and the building was destroyed. One of those who died was Mary McLean, the mother of Marie-Rita McLean, then a student at Villa Maria College.
After finishing school, Marie-Rita joined the Sisters of Mercy. Sr Marie-Rita and her brother Keith decided to create something at the College to commemorate their mother's life, along with that of their father, Finlay, who had died before her. They also wanted to create a sacred place of prayer and peace for the Villa Maria community. In the following decades, the grotto was often referenced as a quiet and calming spot for the students, where they could pray and appreciate the surrounding beauty of the statues and flora.
By 2023, there was significant deterioration visible on both the statues of Our Lady of Lourdes (The Virgin Mary) and St Bernadette. In November last year, these statues were sent for restoration to Damien Walker of the Studio of Saint Philomena. During the restoration, significant work had to be completed. The most substantial task was a full replacement of the face and an arm of St Bernadette. Mr Walker found the original Italian moulds for both statues, allowing for an exact restoration.
This amazing restoration was celebrated at the grotto's unveiling on 25 September. These statues now have a worthy appearance for their 75th anniversary in 2025.
