On the 22nd of July, the Religious Sisters of Charity joined with the Sisters of Charity of Australia for a special gathering to mark the 166th anniversary of the death of Venerable Mary Aikenhead. More than 200 people joined an online prayer service including Sisters, friends, and associates. There was a reflection on the work provided by both congregations since they were established.
Growing from one small Congregation to two Congregations that expand across Australia, Africa, the United States and Europe, the vision of Mary Aikenhead continues to be carried forward more than 200 years after the establishment of the Religious Sisters of Charity. The common purpose and mission being to serve the poor. While the way the Sisters conduct their work may have changed over the years – there is no change in seeking to serve, as the needs of so many remain.
Sr. Patricia Lenihan, Congregational Leader and Sr. Laureen Dixon Congregational Leader, in Australia, welcomed the Sisters to the prayer service to celebrate Mary Aikenhead’s life and legacy. The theme of the service was “passing on Mary Aikenhead’s hope and vision through generations”. The Sisters remembered the people across Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, Myanmar, Haiti and Afghanistan, whose lives are devastated by conflict and war, and the famine and destitution the people in South Sudan, Somalia, Yemen, and Ethiopia face. They were reminded that where there are people who are committed to working towards the good in humanity, there will always be hope. The Sisters who had died in the last year were also remembered and prayed for.
As we face the future together let us never forget… Providence can, does and will provide!
