Spiritual Connections

St. Mary MacKillop is the patron saint of Australia. Her feast day is celebrated on August 8.

Mary was born in Victoria to Scottish immigrants. She was the eldest of eight children and spent her early years working to support her family. At the age of 24 she dedicated her life to God and took on the name “Mary of the Cross”.

Along with Fr Julian Tenison-Woods, Mary opened a school in a disused stable in Penola, South Australia. Her vision was to provide education for underprivileged children. Many other women came to join her there, and Mary and Julian founded Australia’s first religious order: the Sisters of St Joseph.

Mary and the Sisters were committed to serving the poor – to going to where the need was and living amongst those in need. This took Mary all over Australia to many rural areas.

Mary faced fierce opposition throughout her life, which at one point culminated in her being excommunicated. In the face of trial, Mary was a model of forgiveness, insisting no ill be spoken of those who wronged her, while also remaining resolute in her convictions.

Mary was remarkable as a strong female leader in 19th century Australia. Education in this country is what it is today thanks to her dedication and determination.

Saint Mary Mackillop of the Cross is Australia’s first saint.

We copntinue to pray for Alannah Mutimer, Mac Laidlaw, Samuel Alampi, Elise Smith, Olivia LoPiccolo, Mia Serhan-Baker, Emerson Hudson, Brendan Powles, Grace Spittles, Vivian Hippisley, Olivia Talarico, Noah McConnaughie and Emily Worm as they journey towards the receiving the sacrament.

The children were presented at Mass on Sunday as they joined in the Lord’s Prayer at the altar.

Save the date: We have a Parish School Mass on 

Sunday August 13th at 10:30am 

Sacred Heart Church

Please join us and celebrate the wonderful community that we are.

Last week we celebrated our Grandparents and Elderly.  For those that could not join us here is the presentation that the Year 3 & 4 classes made. 

Have a happy, holy and safe fortnight.

Dom Poppa