Last week it was Mary MacKillop’s Feast Day - Australia’s first officially canonised saint. 

Mary MacKillop was a great educator who organised schools for Catholic children, especially for those who were in need and who founded an order of nuns: the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart. 

She faced opposition from many people and she was even wrongfully excommunicated from the Catholic Church at one point. 

She is a great example of heroic virtue, love of God and neighbor and a fierce unwillingness to give up, even in the face of incredible opposition. 

Mary MacKillop once said: 

"Whatever troubles may be before you, accept them bravely, remembering Whom you are trying to follow. Do not be afraid. Love one another, bear with one another, and let charity guide you all your life. God will reward you as only He can."

Prayer:

Lord, may we imitate Mary MacKillop in her strong faith, her love of you and others and her determination to follow your will.

Amen