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Accusations of Abuse in Institutions

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The Press
September 2, 2002

Protest in praise of accused nuns
by Mike Crean

Allegations that the Sisters of Nazareth abused children in their care have angered former residents of Nazareth House girls' home and St Joseph's boys' home in Christchurch.

The allegations, made through the media last month, prompted 50 former residents to demonstrate at Nazareth House yesterday in support of the nuns.

"We stand by the nuns. That's why we are here, to support them against allegations that are false. Those nuns are all dead now and cannot answer for themselves, so we are answering for them," said spokeswoman Mary Gourdie .

Mrs Gourdie was taken in by the nuns at five months, and stayed until she finished high school, from 1929 to 1948.

"Those were the Depression years and war years. It was tough for everybody. We were not treated any worse than anybody else," she said.

Fifteen nuns cared for 40 young children, 70 school-age children, and up to 80 elderly at Nazareth House.

"If they hadn't taken us in, who would have? The nuns taught us to stand on our own feet, to be independent. Discipline was strict, but it had to be. We got the belt, but we did try their patience."

Mrs Gourdie said she never heard the slightest hint of abuse.

Nellie Gardyne , raised at Nazareth from 1931 to 1945, said abuse of any sort was unknown.

"There were always three sisters looking after us, on a roster. They also taught us. We did daily chores, practical household jobs. We also had music and dancing and sports. I don't know where I would be today if it were not for the sisters who took us in at a very young age. I had four sisters, but I ended up with 54. The bond is still there."

Maurie Frawley , who was brought up by the sisters at St Joseph's from 1933 to 1942, said discipline was firm but "never over the odds".

"There were no outlandish punishments dished out. I was not aware of any abuse. We enjoyed helping on the farm. We had lots of sport and our own brass band. We had a good upbringing. There is no antagonism or hatred in our hearts," Mr Frawley said.