October 17 saw the 10th Anniversary of the canonisation of Mary MacKillop to St Mary of the Cross MacKillop.
St Mary of the Cross gave Australians an opportunity to celebrate acts of goodness. Mary MacKillop was an ordinary woman who demonstrated to others that all people mattered. She changed the face of education in this country by allowing all children into her schools, especially the most vulnerable. In doing so, she offered a sense of hope to the poor. Ultimately, she lived the message of Jesus, by loving God and loving others.
It is not every day that a country unites to celebrate the life of a person remembered for being a good human being. This is testimony to the remarkable person that she was. On Saturday, there were many around the country who stopped to celebrate a woman whose goodness knew no boundaries. She found a sense of purpose through her faith and at times, against the odds, showed great courage to ensure that what was good and right was not compromised.
We remember St Mary of the Cross because of the love she showed others. We remember her because she was a good person who led by example and taught us the true value of the Gospel. By remembering St Mary of the Cross, we realise that she gives us reason to celebrate all that is good.
Enrico Caprioli
APRIM
