Pope Francis’ words capture the spirit of JJAMM (Joseph, Julian And Mary MacKillop) 2025, a transformative gathering of Josephite school leaders from across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand.
In February, nearly 100 students and teachers – the largest JJAMM gathering ever – came together to deepen their leadership, enrich their charism, and ignite action for social justice. This experience not only strengthened our connection to the Josephite tradition but also inspired students towards action for justice in their communities.
Inspired by the example of St Joseph, Fr Julian Tenison Woods and St Mary MacKillop’s leadership, the JJAMM conference took place over four days. We began in Mary MacKillop Place in North Sydney learning about the history and legacy of Mary, Julian and the early Josephites. Some highlights from these days included the vibrant chalk mural of our schools and charism, exploring the museum, and attending Mass complete with song and liturgical movement in the Chapel. Students also engaged with Josephite spirit today, in a panel session including Sr Marion Gambin speaking on interfaith dialogue, Sr Susan Connelly on disinformation and misinformation, JAG volunteers, and school captains from Brigidine College St Ives (New South Wales) to hear how we can learn from diverse charisms.
We then travelled to St Joseph’s Centre in Baulkham Hills, marking the transition of our retreat towards action and social justice. As young people, it can often be overwhelming to engage with an ever-changing world with conflict, unrest, climate change, technology, and more impacting our lives.
JJAMM encourages approaching these complex issues through the eyes of Mary, Julian and Joseph. Each with a distinct leadership style we can apply the practical action of Mary, the creative spirit of Julian, and the listening heart of Joseph, to strive for justice in our own communities and world. At Baulkham Hills we voiced our dreams – sharpening our public speaking skills, creating rally posters and chants. Here students and teachers worked together to design initiatives that they could bring back to school to keep the Josephite fire burning strong.
Leaders share their JJAMM experience:
JJAMM 2025 was a memorable and transformative experience. Students were filled with energy, compassion and excitement. Thank you to all participants, the JJAMM team, Mary MacKillop Place and St Joseph’s Centre staff for their hospitality. Also, thanks to the Josephite schools for their ongoing support and everyone who contributed JJAMM. The hope for the future is alive in our Josephite schools.
Josephite Justice Network