This great Australian woman inspired amazing dedication to God’s work and in today’s world,

she stands as an example of great courage and trust in her living out of God’s loving and

compassionate care of those in need.

Born in 1842 in Fitzroy, Victoria Mary MacKillop grew up from humble beginnings. Her need

to provide for her family brought her to Penola, South Australia where she met Father Woods

who encouraged her to open her first religious education school named Saint Joseph’s School.

Young women inspired by the dedication and goodness of Mary came to join her and so the

Congregation of the Sisters of Saint Joseph was founded.

On the 17th of October 2010 Mother Mary MacKillop will be recognised as Australia’s first saint,

when she is Canonised by the Holy Father, as the Catholic Church of the world will celebrate

the goodness of Blessed Mary MacKillop in Rome, Italy.