A chilling tale unfolds at Nazareth House. Not of miracles or kindness, but of alleged abuse and a fight for justice. Nazareth House in Lasswade, near Edinburgh, was once a children’s home run by the Sisters of Nazareth. In 1973, an 11-year-old girl, known as GD, and her five siblings were placed in the care of Nazareth House. Her three-week stay became a nightmare. GD alleges daily beatings and violence from the nuns, particularly one known as Sister Y. She claims Sister Y smacked her across her face and body. She even rubbed GD’s face in her dirty underwear. The horrors didn’t stop there. GD also alleges sexual abuse by a priest in a shower room, while nuns, including Sister Y, looked on. The Sisters of Nazareth deny the allegations and claim no priest visited the home during that time. For over 50 years, GD carried this trauma, suffering nightmares and flashbacks. Now in her 60s, she’s bravely fighting for justice. Sheriff Graham Primrose KC called the allegations “of the utmost severity”. He ordered a hearing, despite the order’s attempts to dismiss the case. Sister Y, now 80, is still alive and expected to testify. In a letter to the court, she denies any abuse and claims she doesn’t remember GD. The legal battle at Nazareth House continues, a stark reminder of the darkness that can lurk beneath seemingly innocent facades.
Duke Street United Reformed Church
Hidden within the bustling streets of Leith, Duke Street United Reformed Church has witnessed over 150 years of Edinburgh’s history.