Learn about the life of Australia’s first saint through stories and anecdotes. Each session in this new for 2025 “twilight” series can be attended on its own.
Born into a struggling and dysfunctional family, a diminutive young woman had a dream of making a difference in her class-conscious colonial world. Once freed of her heavy family responsibilities, she could begin her work. Then came greater challenges, but still she soldiered on!
In this session, Mary Ryan rsj, inaugural Director of the Mary MacKillop Museum, explores the unplanned, exponential growth of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, their pioneering Social Welfare and Reform, as they responded the urgent needs of 19th Century Adelaide’s poorest.
Registration strictly by 12pm August 13th. Enquiries: 8130 5921 or email admin.mmpsa@sosjspirit.org.au.
About the Facilitator
Mary Ryan rsj was the Inaugural Director of Mary MacKillop Precinct. A Sister of Saint Joseph for 55 years, she has ministered in the areas of primary and secondary education, parish development, adult and young adult spirituality, university chaplaincy – and also in a number of leadership roles in both Victoria and NSW. Since her arrival in South Australia in 2013, Mary has co-ordinated the establishment of Mary MacKillop Precinct, the redevelopment of Mary MacKillop Museum and the creation of the Kensington-Norwood Mary MacKillop Walk. She is currently the Assistant Director Spirituality Ministry. Mary is inspired daily by her hero, Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop.