Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop
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Patron Saint of Our Parish and Australia’s First Saint
Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop (1842–1909) is the beloved patron of our parish, a woman of deep faith, extraordinary courage, and practical compassion. She is Australia’s first canonised saint and a powerful example of how holiness can be lived in everyday service to others.
A Woman of Faith and Action
Mary MacKillop was born in Melbourne, Australia, to Scottish immigrant parents. From a young age, she felt called to serve God by helping the poor, especially through education. At just 24 years old, she co-founded the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart with Father Julian Tenison Woods in 1866.
Together, they opened schools in remote and struggling communities, offering free education to children who would otherwise have gone without. Mary believed that every child had a right to learn and be treated with dignity, no matter their background or situation.
A Heart for the Poor and the Marginalised
Mary MacKillop’s life was marked by her compassion for the poor, her courage in standing up for what was right, and her trust in God’s providence. She famously said:
“Never see a need without doing something about it.”
That spirit still guides the mission of Catholic communities across Australasia, including our own.
Struggles and Sainthood
Mary was not without her struggles. She faced opposition, misunderstanding—even excommunication at one point—but she remained faithful to her calling and to the Church. Her humility, forgiveness, and perseverance were signs of her deep union with Christ.
In 2010, Mary MacKillop was canonised by Pope Benedict XVI, becoming Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop, the first Australian saint and a source of great pride and inspiration for both Australia and New Zealand.
Her Legacy in New Zealand and Rotorua
The Sisters of St Joseph followed her footsteps to Aotearoa New Zealand, where they served in schools, parishes, and missions—including in Rotorua. Their work helped form the foundation of our Catholic identity here, especially in education and Māori outreach.
The spirit of Saint Mary MacKillop continues to shape our parish life today:
• In our care for the vulnerable,
• In our welcome to all cultures,
• And in our commitment to love, live and lead with integrity and faith.
Prayer to Saint Mary MacKillop
Ever generous God,
You inspired Saint Mary MacKillop
to live her life faithful to the Gospel of Jesus Christ
and constant in bringing hope and encouragement
to those who were disheartened, lonely or needy.
With confidence in your generous providence
and through the intercession of Saint Mary of the Cross,
we ask that our parish may continue her mission
to love, to live and to lead. Amen.
Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop, pray for us
Aroha, Ora, Arahi
Love, Live, Lead
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