The Sisters of the Good Samaritan are inviting applications for their Study and Mentoring Program, which offers financial assistance for women undertaking tertiary studies at a recognised theological institution, The Good Oil reports.

Core components of the program, now in its third year, include opportunities for spiritual direction, mentoring and dialogue with like-minded women.

*The Good Samaritan Study and Mentoring Program offers financial assistance for women undertaking tertiary studies at a recognised theological institution. IMAGE: Shutterstock.*

Financial assistance will be offered to a maximum of $8000 per year. The grant can be spent on tuition or other expenses associated with the completion of the qualification.

In a statement announcing this year’s mentoring program, the Good Samaritan Sisters referred to the Fifth Plenary Council of Australia’s Decree Witnessing To The Equal Dignity Of Women And Men, saying “it is clear in its recognition of the gifts of all and in its understanding of the vital role of formation as we begin to move forward”.

The Sisters said the exhortation of the Plenary Council was part of Good Samaritan life and mission. Since their foundation and throughout their 165-year history, the Sisters have educated girls and women from pre-school to tertiary levels and have been engaged in adult education and adult faith formation. The Study and Mentoring Program is further evidence of this.

“The Good Sams recognise the need for women’s leadership within the Church, for only when women contribute their experience and wisdom can the Church truly fulfil God’s mission,” the Sisters said.

“The Church suffers when women’s gifts are not called upon.”

For details on the program, visit the Good Samaritan website or email samleadership@goodsams.org.au.

This article was drawn from information published in the August edition of The Good Oil, the e-publication of the Sisters of the Good Samaritan.