The people there worked hard, played hard, and were very friendly and welcoming. It was in Broken Hill I realised that people are basically the same where ever we are. Then it was 200 kilometres away to the Aboriginal community of Wilcannia, where I stayed for the next 8 years. I was initially shocked at the stark poverty and oppression of the people – a contrast to the life I had known until then. I learnt much from the Aboriginal people–about patience, forgiveness, understanding and appreciating the environment. My time in Wilcannia ended when the Sisters of Compassion withdrew from there, and the apostolate was continued by the Mercy Sisters. I would like to acknowledge the contribution of the Compassion Sisters who went before me. Their impact on that community showed in the esteem and acceptance given to those who followed, including myself. Next stop: Chanel Home of Compassion, Fiji where I was treasurer for 10 years. It was refreshing to now be with people who had pride and confidence in themselves. This made for a happy community and a lively social atmosphere. I endeavoured to learn the language, a great doorway into the Fijian culture. I enjoyed the richness of life and social events. Village life was simple, but in relationships, there was richness and abundance. It was a happy time, and difficult for me to leave Fiji; some of my heart is still there. Since 1999 I have been the archivist for the Sisters of Compassion, happily working towards the canonisation of Meri Hōhepa Suzanne Aubert.
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Sister Bernardine Ward
Stella Magdalen Ward was born at Bolton, Lancashire, England, on 6 May, 1916. Her parents were William and Margaret Mary Ward (O’Neil). The family moved to New Zealand when Stella was eight and settled in Wanganui where they lived until moving to Auckland in 1941...
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Sister Leonard McGrath
Teresa Johanna McGrath was born on 19 September, 1898, in the Parish of Ramsgrange in the Diocese of Ferns, Ireland.
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Sister Michael Soani
Sister was the first person from Fiji to enter the Sisters of Compassion. After her Religious Profession she taught at our School in Suva...