Today we gathered as a school and parish community to celebrate the Feast of Australia's first saint, Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop. Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop was canonised by Pope Benedict on 17 October 2010.

Her Feast Day is celebrated on the 8^th August, not only in schools, parishes and churches across Australia but by communities and individuals worldwide. Although her death occurred more than a century ago, she continues to inspire men, women and children, whether Catholic or non-Catholic. As we celebrate the Feast Day, it is good for us to be reminded of her spirit of compassion, generosity and kindness. Mary MacKillop’s life and work are built firmly on these values which formed the framework out of which all her endeavours grew. They form the foundation of what has made her a window of hope in our world.
Fundamental to her beliefs was that God was active in her own life and the lives of others. Mary MacKillop was in touch with God at the centre of her life. Her relationship with God gave meaning to her daily life. It was from the heart of God that she drew the strength to be a witness to God’s love in the world. 

Mary remained open to the surprise of God each day and in every situation.