Some symbols carry stories that span generations. At Immaculata High School, a cherished statue of Mary, the Blessed Mother, has found a new home, bringing with it a rich history of faith, community and connection to Old Ottawa East.
Students, staff and special guests gathered for a blessing of the statue, welcoming an important piece of local Catholic history to the Immaculata school community.
As the patroness of Immaculata, Mary holds a special place in the school’s identity. Her presence is a reminder of the faith and values that have shaped generations of students and continue to guide the school today.
A Piece of History Worth Preserving
For decades, the statue was a cherished symbol of faith for the Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, whose connection to Old Ottawa East is part of the neighbourhood’s Catholic heritage.
Thanks to the generosity of the Sisters and the collaboration of Forum Asset Management, the statue has been preserved and given a new home where its story can continue.
The blessing brought together people who share a connection to that history, including His Excellency, the Most Reverend Yvan Mathieu, Auxiliary Bishop of Ottawa-Cornwall, and Sr. Andrée Guindon, Coordinator of the Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Canada.
Their presence made the occasion particularly meaningful, bringing together the religious community that cared for the statue for so many years and the school community that will now carry its legacy forward.
A New Home, a Continuing Story
There is something special about seeing a piece of history find a place in the everyday life of a school.
For Immaculata students, the statue will become a familiar part of their surroundings. They may pass it on their way to class, stop for a moment of reflection or simply come to recognize it as part of what makes their school special.
And while its history stretches back generations, its place at Immaculata is just beginning.
That connection between past and present reflects the spirit of the OCSB’s Spiritual Theme, Open Doors, Build Bridges, Nourish New Beginnings.
The statue has found a new home, but the faith, care and devotion it represents remain very much alive.
At Immaculata, an important piece of the past now has a place in the future.
