I am writing this article off the back of the Mary MacKillop Feast Day Mass and my heart is so full. It is such a blessing to be able to gather as a whole school and parish once again and what better occasion that this. All the students participated with enthusiasm, and I want to praise all those who had an active role: these students rose to the occasion and showed leadership and commitment in carrying their roles out with pride. Well done!  

Mary of the Cross MacKillop's motto of ‘never see a need without doing something about it’ continues to inspire us today.  

From an early age Mary felt drawn to give herself entirely to God in religious life. Her dream became a reality on August 15, 1867 when she made her vows as a Sister of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart in Adelaide, South Australia.  

Mary’s love for Christ was so strong that she sought him out in the poor, sick and suffering. There are many examples in Mary’s life where she put aside her own needs in order to serve the sick and lonely.  

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

In the spirit of Jesus the teacher, Mary combined a love of children and a desire that education should be available to all. Mary sent the Sisters to remote areas to ensure that economic hardship and distance provided no barrier for formation in faith and knowledge. 

We are indebted to Saint Mary for founding our school community. Her work, her ambition, her dedication, and her love are still very much felt at the school. We would like to wish all our Community a very happy Feast Day.  

I share below a new artwork of Mary MacKillop that was presented today during the mass. 

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Next week on Monday the 15^th August is the Feast of the Assumption, and we will be holding another mas at 9:30am. We warmly invite all our community to attend and join us in this celebration.  

This Sunday, 14^th August we will be celebrating with our Sacramental Candidates, their First Holy Communion. Please feel free to come and join this celebration at 10:30am. We will have morning tea and cake straight after the mass. I will share a photo of the candidates in our next newsletter.  

Christine Farrugia 

APRIM