Reflection
Friday 8 August - Feast of St Mary of the Cross
St. Mary MacKillop, also known as St. Mary of the Cross, was an Australian nun declared a saint by the Catholic Church. She was born in Melbourne, on January 15, 1842, as the eldest of their eight children.
MacKillop was educated in private schools and at home by her father. She received her First Holy Communion at the age of nine.
Growing up, MacKillop and her family struggled financially. The family farm never had much success. During most times, the family had to survive on the small wages the children were able to bring home.
Let Us Pray,
God of the prophets you gifted Mary MacKillop with vision and courage.In her we see one who was not afraid to speak fearlessly your gospel of love.We pray for the sensitivity and imagination to read the signs of our times, and to articulate new possibilities for our own day. Like Mary, may we learn to confront all that is oppressive and unjust, and empower others towards true freedom and integrity. Spirit of wisdom, be with us as we face new horizons. Amen