Did you know that Downlands College Toowoomba has a strong connection with the extension to St Patrick’s Cathedral? In 1935, Downlands students raised funds in addition to the college contributing funds to the beautiful Sanctuary windows.
The Downlands College 1935 Magazine describes a grand event hosted by the college. With an impressive list of archbishops, bishops and monsignors in attendance, guests mingled in the school’s gardens and well decorated dining hall. During afternoon tea, Downlands Captain Joseph Campbell (1932-1935) presented then Bishop of Toowoomba, James Byrne, a cheque for £50, the equivalent to many thousands of dollars today, towards the Cathedral funds. The money had been raised by small “subscriptions” from Downlands’ 170 students. It was also revealed that the college had also provided the Sanctuary windows.
Bishop Byrne thanked the students for their personal contribution to the cathedral. Addressing the crowd he said, “The memory of the Cathedral will always rest with them, and when they have left Downlands and go out into the world they will be able to tell everybody, and perhaps their own children, if they have any, of the very practical part they played in the completion of a Cathedral erected to the glory of God and under the patronage of the Apostle of Ireland.” Students would have been extra pleased with their efforts, as it is noted that Bishop Byrne granted students a holiday.
The Sanctuary windows are a prominent feature of the apse, with the play of light through the lancet windows enhancing the groined roof. The central windows feature the words AMETUR COR JESU, which translates as “Loved be the heart of Jesus!” and FORTES IN FIDE, which translates as “Strong in Faith”, the honoured motto of Downlands College. Symbols of the Sacred Heart are also featured on some windows, further connecting them to Downlands.
Restoration of these windows and all the leadlight windows in the cathedral are planned in the next stage of work, as well as restoration of the doors, internal plasterwork repairs and painting. After the work on the roof and exterior cleaning, the timing of the next phase is still being determined as the building moisture levels are monitored and heritage approvals are sought. The windows alone will be a complex process of maintaining historical accuracy and repairing damage. Another factor that is being given serious consideration is honouring the memory of and acknowledging the individuals and families who contributed to the original windows.
People connected to Downlands College, St Patrick’s Cathedral or the wider Toowoomba Diocesan community may wish to support the next stage of restoration works by making a tax-deductible donation.