Josephite Justice Network Update
May 8, 2023
This year has been a significant one for many of us as Josephites.
The polarisation of debate around the Voice referendum has challenged us in many different ways, and the crises in the housing market, low wages, inadequate welfare payments and the devastation facing Earth have both tested and galvanised us. We’ve been really conscious of the efforts right across the entire Josephite community to respond.
Irene McCormack Catholic College: Continuation of the Legacies of Sister Irene
To commemorate the anniversary of the death of Sister Irene McCormack (21 May 1991), we feature a reflection by Irene McCormack Catholic College.
Irene McCormack Catholic College is a co-educational Year 7 to 12 secondary school which was established in 2000 by the Catholic Education Commission of Western Australia in response to an increased demand for Catholic education in the rapidly growing north-western corridor of Perth. The College was named in honour of Sister Irene McCormack and to continue her legacy of prayer, service and justice.
National Volunteer Week 2023: Being a JAG Volunteer
This year we celebrate National Volunteer Week from 15-21 May with the theme The Change Makers.
It is no doubt that being a volunteer enables people to be catalysts for change. As a Josephite Action Group (JAG) member, volunteering has become a large part of my life.
Celebrating 70, 75 and 80 Years of Religious Life
April 27, 2023
Sisters from across Australia gathered at Mary MacKillop Place in North Sydney recently to acknowledge and celebrate their Tanzanite (80 years), Tourmaline (75 years) and Platinum (70 years) Jubilees.
Seven of the Jubilarians from a group of 15 Sisters were able to gather where they were welcomed by Sisters of Saint Joseph Congregational Leader, Sr Monica Cavanagh, fellow Sisters, family and friends. The Most Reverend Terry Brady presided at the Mass and congratulated the Jubilarians on their vowed commitment.
“Nice and comfortable” – the 1876 Mother House at Kensington SA
The weather was threatening. Rain forced the bishop to shorten his address, but the Sisters’ hearts were light, as the foundation stone for the new Kensington convent building was laid on 5 September 1875. Soon the Sisters would have the room they desperately needed!
Father Julian Tenison Woods Reflection
A reflection in the key of F on Fr Julian Tenison Woods [1832-1889]: Saint Mary MacKillop’s “Father Founder”
“Fairly faithfully and fallibly following a fairly famous and fallible Founder”.
Mary MacKillop With Us
We invite you to view a poem on Mary MacKillop by Covenant Josephite, Rosa Davila.
Remembering Previous Military Service on ANZAC Day
April 20, 2023
On ANZAC Day (25 April) we remember those who have served in the defence forces of Australia and New Zealand. Two Western Australian based Sisters of Saint Joseph, Sisters Julie O’Sullivan and Carla Curran, served in the military prior to making their commitment to religious life.
During World War II, Sr Julie served in the Australian Army as a member of the 52nd Wireless Section. This group, based in the Perth suburb of Cannington, intercepted Japanese signals, recording the messages and forwarding them to a central bureau for deciphering. This top secret work required the staff to sign an oath that they would not reveal anything about their work for 30 years.
Sr Julie (1921 – 2011) and her six siblings were raised in Manjimup, in the forests of south-west Western Australia, where they were taught by the Sisters of Saint Joseph. Four of Sr Julie’s brothers enlisted as part of the war effort and this inspired Julie to also contribute. In January 1947, a year after her discharge from military service, Julie entered to become a Sister of Saint Joseph.