Saint Mary MacKillop

          I would like to write about Saint Mary MacKillop, because she was, and is, an example for us to honor God in our daily lives. Born in Melbourne, Australia in 1842, Mary MacKillop was the eldest of eight children. She found inspiration in the words of Jesus, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Mt. 22:37-39). Through the words of God, she encountered Jesus in person, and learned who He is, how He lived, what He taught, and what He had done for her.
Mary MacKillop founded a new religious community in rural Australia called the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Sacred Heart, a convent avowed to a life of poverty, and dedicated to helping and educating children, and introducing them to the word of God. Mary was intent on establishing the order in Brisbane, Queensland, and as her sisters grew in numbers, her order ministered throughout Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Peru, East Timor, Scotland, and Brazil. When Mary heard the call of God on her life, she answered with her full heart.
The Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Sacred Heart was the first religious order in Australia. I admire Mother Mary Mackillop because she was on fire to serve the poor. Mary Mackillop was the first Australian canonized saint. She is known across Australia for her great work in the education of the children. Author Mathew Kelly wrote in his book, Rediscover the Saints, that “Mother Mary Mackillop had a great love for the poor and a strong conviction that all men and women deserve to be educated.” (page 97). Saint Mary MacKillop is the patron of the Brisbane Archdiocese where my family is settled in Australia.
Today we ask Saint Mary MacKillop to pray for us, and for people all over the world.
Have a blessed week and enjoy this carnival season!!!