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.
Support our Appeal
Our Stories
All stories-
Sister Cletus Johansen
Sister came from Australia...
-
Sister Augustine Eller
Mary Elizabeth Eller was born at Wellington on November 20, 1886. Her parents were Martin and Annie Eller (nee Cramer). She entered as a Postulant on March 19, 1908. She was the first Postulant to enter at Island Bay, which she did an hour or two after the arrival of the Novices from Buckle Street on the evening of St. Joseph's Day...
-
Sister Malia Finau Ta’anga
Sister Malia Finau Ta’Anga: Malia was from Tonga. She was very good hearted and worked well in the different apostolates of the Sisters of Compassion, after discernment she decided to […]