Saint Mary MacKillop

I was born in Australia in 1842, to parents who had emigrated from Scotland. As a young woman I was drawn to religious life, but I didn't know which congregation I shoul join. Later I met Father Julian Woods who became my spiritual director. Together we founded a new community, the Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Sacred Heart, also known as the Josephite Sisters. Our mission was to take care of poor children, orphans and to do other works of charity. I had to face many problems and jealousy as the congregation grew. On the basis of false accusations, I was excommunicated, and charged with disobedience. However, I was exhonorated and reinstalled in my religious functions. After some perseverance, the congregation was approved by the Pope. From now on we would fall directly under he jurisdiction of the Holy See. With my sisters, we provided social help to many people in need. I kept helping others until the end of my life at the age of 67.