MORE than 200 people attended a recent regional gathering to explore the spirituality of Blessed Mary MacKillop, highlighting the level of interest in Australia’s first saint.
The gathering at St Catherine of Siena Church, Sippy Downs, on the Sunshine Coast, on September 21 has been one of six such gatherings throughout Brisbane archdiocese.
Hosted by Archbishop John Bathersby of Brisbane and featuring various Sisters of St Joseph speaking of the profound yet down-to-earth spirituality of their congregation’s co-founder, the gatherings started in Gympie and will finish in Ipswich.
Organiser Mike Humphrys said the archbishop, in conjunction with the archdiocesan pastoral council, had organised the gatherings as a way of preparing for Mary MacKillop’s canonisation on October 17 in Rome.
“Archbishop Bathersby was also keen to support these gatherings to acknowledge Blessed Mary’s role as archdiocesan patron,” Mr Humphrys said.
Each gathering has prayers to celebrate Mary MacKillop’s life, discusses the influences that shaped her spirituality including her parents, congregational co-founder Fr Julian Tenison Woods and her unfailing trust in God’s providence.
Those present then have time to share their thoughts on her spirituality followed by time to ask questions of the Josephite Sister making the presentation.
Our Lady Queen of the Apostles Church, Stafford, will host the next gathering tomorrow night (October 4) with Josephite Sister Margaret Robertson giving the presentation.
The following night (October 5), Josephite Sister Monica Cavanagh will be the presenter at St Bernard’s Church, 4 Klumpp Road, Upper Mt Gravatt.
St Mary’s Church, corner Elizabeth Street and Roseberry Parade, Ipswich, will host the final gathering on October 12. Presenter will be Josephite Sister Therese Wilson.
All gatherings are introduced with hospitality at 7pm, start by 7.30pm and conclude by 9pm.
