Presentation Sisters in Victoria since Vatican II

Autumn brings its own promise and blessing as it prepares us for winter; and on a warm and bright Saturday afternoon in March, the weather set the promise for a memorable event – the launch of “The Promise and the Blessing” (Katharine Massam, 2025, Garratt Publishing).

Guests were welcomed by Sr Helen Carboon, IBVM, Congregation Leader.   Mr Michael McGirr, Mission Facilitator Caritas Australia, launched the book with humour and wisdom, and a vote of thanks was given by Sr Frances Duynam IBVM.

Approximately 150 guests enjoyed each other’s company, and many memories were shared.   

Congratulations to the leaders and guides of this project which charts the history, events and personnel since Vatican II and the ministries of the Presentation Sisters of Victoria – Star of the Sea College, Brighton, Wellsprings for Women, Dandenong, and Saltbush, Balnarring Beach (previously known as Presentation Family Centre) – joining Kildare Ministries in 2014. 

“The fragile beginnings of Nano’s group inspire her confidence that the movement for justice and peace to which Kildare Ministries is committed has a bigger reference point than any one individual…..The role of each person is more simply to play their part” (p.276). 

Indeed, it is the mission that Jesus’ life and ministry inspire us for today and tomorrow.

Rosemary Copeland

Co-Chair

Trustees of Kildare Ministries

To read a review of the "The Promise and the Blessing" by Michael McGirr click here.