The contribution of 30 religious orders across the Canberra and Goulburn Archdiocese will be celebrated at Mass at St Christopher’s Cathedral, Canberra, as part of the Jubilee Year. Source: Catholic Voice.
From large cities to tiny railway sidings, the imprint of dedicated religious men and women in the archdiocese can still be found through liturgical celebrations, home visits, music, pastoral care, education, hospitals, and hospitality.
Josephite Sister Colleen Howe said the numerous religious had played an integral part in the life of the archdiocese.
“While not dwelling on the past, it is always good and appropriate to remember from whence we have come,” Sr Colleen said.
“Take a moment to pause and feel the heartbeat of the archdiocese – unique, diverse and challenging in its very essence. Ministries have been life-giving to the individuals, communities and members of the wider community irrespective of religious beliefs.”
Sr Colleen said looking back over the years made it possible to appreciate the difficulties and challenges experienced by the early religious orders.
“They didn’t enjoy the comforts, mode of transport, spacious living commodities and, in some cases, the necessary qualifications to carry out the ministry to which they were assigned,” she explained.
“We learnt to know, love and serve generously and joyfully. As a teaching order, sisters were constantly on the move to go where there was a need – into isolated country areas and where families were struggling to make ends meet.
“The religious identified with the families with whom they share their faith – living simply, faithful to their religious calling and ready to be of assistance, whatever the circumstance.”
Sr Colleen said while life was tough for everyone in the earlier days, there was a spirit of joy.
“The people looked after the religious, and the religious cared for and shared with the people,” she said.
“In hindsight, one marvels at the faith, courage, generosity and adaptability of the pioneering religious; however, don’t we marvel too at the faith, generosity and courage of our parents and families who shared the journey.”
The Pilgrims of Hope Mass to celebrate the contribution of religious orders across the Canberra-Goulburn Archdiocese will be held at St Christopher’s Cathedral on Sunday, February 9 at 11am.
FULL STORY
Religious Orders honoured in local Jubilee celebration (By Veronika Cox, Catholic Voice)
