12 September 2024
In Week 7, the Year 4 students visited St Peter’s Cathedral in North Adelaide as part of the Religious and Values Education program. They walked along the riverbank footpath, spotting many birds along the way. After a picnic morning tea outside Adelaide Oval, we entered the cathedral and were warmly greeted by the volunteer guides. Mr Anthony Hunt, the Director of Music, gave a wonderful explanation of the cathedral’s pipe organ, built in England in 1929. It features the largest organ pipes in South Australia, and the boys were captivated by the range of sounds it could produce.
The students were divided into six groups to explore different areas of the cathedral, including the aisles, narthex, gallery, Lady Chapel, and chancel. The calm atmosphere of the cathedral, punctuated by organ music signaling movement between stations, was appreciated by all. The boys enjoyed climbing the winding staircase to the gallery and admiring the vivid colors of the stained-glass windows. The guides shared their knowledge of the cathedral’s history, architecture, and key features.
The boys learned how the artists of the stained-glass windows used symbols and images to represent biblical stories and aspects of South Australia. They asked many questions and enjoyed the company of the engaging guides, expressing their thanks and appreciation for the wonderful learning experience.
Dr Katherine Bensted
R.A.V.E teacher
