Saint Mary MacKillop

This week we have celebrated the feast day of Saint Mary MacKillop. Mary was an Australian religious sister who was declared a saint by the catholic church. For us here at St John’s, Mary is acknowledged as a wonderful role model who inspires us to live a life focussed on the catholic social teaching of ‘the Common Good’. 

Mary focussed her life on ensuring that education was available to everyone, especially the poor. Her establishment of catholic schools that were staffed by nuns enabled this vision. Mary’s work was inspirational and she is often quoted by our community to inspire us to be mindful of our blessings and engage in opportunities to assist others. 

God of all people. We thank you for Mary MacKillop who like your Son Jesus reached out to the poor, the isolated, the rejected and all in need with a compassionate and loving heart.

As we walk in her footsteps may we see with her eyes, listen with her ears and love with her heart.

May we respond in practical ways where we see need. We ask this in Jesus’ name, the one who shows us the way of compassion and love.

Amen

Creative Arts Showcases

Throughout, the year our young people develop their skills in creative arts. The opportunity to showcase these skills is very valuable to these young people. We have seen their skills in this year’s musical, and over the next few weeks there will be a number of showcases of the creative arts here at St John’s. I encourage everyone to attend, not only will they be gifted with a great evening but you will also provide a real audience and support them in their passion for telling their stories with their gifts.