The Sisters of Saint Joseph will celebrate the 10th anniversary of the canonisation of St Mary MacKillop this weekend with commemorative prayers, videos and a global vigil in her honour.
St Mary MacKillop was canonised by Pope Benedict XVI in Rome on October 17, 2010. About 9000 Australians travelled to Rome to celebrate the occasion.
Ten years on, the Sisters of Saint Joseph are inviting Australians to reflect on what the canonisation of Australia’s first saint meant to them then and now.
The theme chosen for this celebration is "Take Fresh Courage". This theme, reflecting the many challenges Australians have faced in 2020 , is taken from a letter written by St Mary MacKillop in 1877.
On Friday at 8pm AEDT, the Sisters will hold “Courage Hour”, a global online vigil of deep peace, prayer, and reflection.
Mary MacKillop’s portrait adorning St Peter’s Basilica during her canonisation ceremony on October 17, 2010.
Sr Monica Cavanagh, Congregational Leader of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, said: “The 10th anniversary of Saint Mary MacKillop’s canonisation is a chance for us to reflect on Mary’s legacy and the valuable lessons her life experiences have taught us.
“She faced hard times and adversity over the years, from her family’s poverty to the loss of many loved ones. She carried on, strengthened by her faith and her determination to serve others … She was a woman of strong convictions and great energy who treasured friendship and family. Mary always had a place in her heart for those most challenged by life’s circumstances.
“I am proud that the Sisters of Saint Joseph continue to follow in her footsteps today and people from around the world find inspiration in her example.”
This article was drawn from a media release issued by the Sisters of St Joseph. Read it here.
For more details head to the website of the Sisters of St Joseph.