ST James School, Coorparoo, marked the feast day of their patron with the unveiling and blessing of a silhouette statue of the apostle.
Assistant Principal for Religious Education Peter Gibson, engaged with artists from Victoria to design and produce the 2.4m tall artwork of St James, including his pilgrim staff and scallop shell, which now proudly stands tall at the school's front door.
Peter said the statue was commissioned following a two-year process responding to recommendations from the school's 2018 external review, which identified the importance of iconography.
Students joined in the celebration liturgy, and listened to a reading from Matthew (4:19-20) “Come, follow me," Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.".
At once they left their nets and followed him.
Principal John Bates, joined by a small contingent of guests, unveiled the statue and a plaque, while streaming to the school hall, where students and staff were able to watch.
As he blessed the statue, parish Associate Pastor Augustinian Father Francis Belciña, explained to students that James was called by Jesus from his fishing boat.
He said Jesus asked James to join him and spread God's message of love and compassion.
“This message has been passed on through many generations and is the same message we hear today," Fr Belciña said.
“As faith filled followers of Jesus, we too, 'Follow the St James Way'," he said.