A Message of Sorrow and Apology
No words can truly express our sorrow that children at Belvedere College SJ, who should have been cherished and safe, were subjected to abuse.
Belvedere College SJ extends its deepest apologies to those harmed by Fr Joseph Marmion SJ and other Jesuits named by the order. We are profoundly sorry that children entrusted to our care were grievously abused. We echo the words of Jesuit Provincial Fr Shane Daly SJ, speaking in 2025, who stated:
Once more, we ask forgiveness for the pain and suffering inflicted on students who suffered abuse by members of our order, and we express our shame for the inadequacy of our response to their suffering. There are no excuses. We hope to atone for the past and deeply appreciate the courage of survivors in allowing us to be part of this process.
We again offer our heartfelt apology to every past pupil who suffered abuse by Jesuits at Belvedere College SJ. The courage shown by those who sought justice in the face of betrayal is deeply moving and inspirational. We hope those who have been abused find a measure of peace through the restorative processes.
The Symbol of the Heartwheel.
Many who were abused need the truth of their abuse to be revealed in order for them to move on with their emotional lives. The image of a wheel with a heart at its centre came to mind, representing the wheel of one’s emotional life. The wheel is fractured, representing the trauma suffered. The wheel of life moves forward even after trauma, allowing hope of repair. (John Coll, Sculptor of the Heartwheel)
The sculpture is a powerful symbol, illustrating how abuse shattered lives, while also conveying a collective hope to end cycles of oppression, inequality, and suffering.
The Plaque reads:
‘In tribute to all the victims of abuse by those who should have protected and nurtured you’
The Irish Jesuits in remorse,2024′.
Inscription on the Wheel
“Forgive us, pray for us, that we may pray for you out of our shame.”
Murder in the Cathedral (T.S. Eliot)
In this line, the chorus, representing those whose inaction contributed to Thomas Becket’s murder, expresses guilt, moral failure, humility, and a longing for redemption. The killing of Archbishop Becket in a sacred space was a profound betrayal. The abuse of children is an equally profound betrayal. Jesus said, “It would be better for you if a millstone were hung around your neck, and you were thrown into the sea than for you to cause one of these little ones to stumble.” (Luke 17:2). This underscores the sanctity of a child’s innocence and Christ’s grave warning to those who harm them.
Location of the Installation
The Chapel lies at the heart of the College, making it a fitting location for a permanent reminder that we failed to protect the most vulnerable among us. The Heartwheel is also adjacent to the Campus Ministry Centre which is a place of welcome and inclusivity for all members of the Belvedere community. When Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs.” (Mark 10:14), it was a radical assertion of dignity for children, because children, women and slaves, were marginalised in the society of his time. His vision of inclusivity and respect continues to challenge us today.”
Abuse thrives in environments where others fail to uphold their duty to protect the vulnerable. The past reminds us that safeguarding children is not only a priority, it is a moral imperative. We must not only apologise for past failings at the College, we must ensure our commitment to protection remains unwavering.
Gerry Foley
Headmaster
May 2025
