Mary MacKillop, Australia’s first saint is acknowledged as a significant figure in Australian history for her contribution towards the development of Catholic education and social welfare. She continues to prevail as an inspiration in society, having exhibited courage and compassion through her selfless actions toward those in need. Mary Helen MacKillop, also known as Saint Mary of the Cross was born on January 15, 1942 in Fitztroy, Victoria to Alexander MacKillop and Flora MacDonald. Her parents lived in Roybridge, Scotland prior to their emigration to Australia and married soon after their arrival in Melbourne. Mary was of Catholic denomination and was baptised on the 28th February, 1842 in the church of St Francis, Melbourne’s first Catholic
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Mary had a profound impact on the establishment of Catholic education as she was responsible for devising the structure of the lessons within her schools. Her formal teaching qualifications assisted her in creating a vision for education as her main purpose was to educate children from poor families. Many children who experienced the consequences of poverty did not attend school and Mary and the Josephites aimed to modify this attitude. They were responsible for inspiring children to learn how to read, write, answer arithmetical questions, read letters, control their finances and enhance their situation in life. Mary’s motto, ‘Never see a need without doing something about it’ (Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart 2009, para 2) motivated her to develop new opportunities for young children and respond to the needs of all she served. Mary believed in the value of education as a foundation for a prosperous and fulfilling life, ‘As we walk as one with people and with trust in God’s Providence we listen again and again for the cry of the poor and respond revealing the hospitable heart of our God’ (Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Sacred Heart 2009, 25th General Chapter). Mary had a natural understanding of children as she was able to listen to their needs and respond adequately to ensure they were well looked after. Her fervent influence on poor and underprivileged children through the establishment of Catholic education allowed them to develop the necessary skills to reach their optimum
Mary had a profound impact on the establishment of Catholic education as she was responsible for devising the structure of the lessons within her schools. Her formal teaching qualifications assisted her in creating a vision for education as her main purpose was to educate children from poor families. Many children who experienced the consequences of poverty did not attend school and Mary and the Josephites aimed to modify this attitude. They were responsible for inspiring children to learn how to read, write, answer arithmetical questions, read letters, control their finances and enhance their situation in life. Mary’s motto, ‘Never see a need without doing something about it’ (Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart 2009, para 2) motivated her to develop new opportunities for young children and respond to the needs of all she served. Mary believed in the value of education as a foundation for a prosperous and fulfilling life, ‘As we walk as one with people and with trust in God’s Providence we listen again and again for the cry of the poor and respond revealing the hospitable heart of our God’ (Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Sacred Heart 2009, 25th General Chapter). Mary had a natural understanding of children as she was able to listen to their needs and respond adequately to ensure they were well looked after. Her fervent influence on poor and underprivileged children through the establishment of Catholic education allowed them to develop the necessary skills to reach their optimum