On 22 July 2026, the Religious Sisters of Charity joined with the Sisters of Charity of Australia for a special online celebration to mark the 168th anniversary of the death of Venerable Mary Aikenhead.
More than 120 people including Sisters, friends and associates gathered in prayer and reflection to celebrate the life, vision and enduring legacy of our Foundress. The theme of this years’ service, Keeping Mary Aikenhead’s Spirit Alive in Today’s World through our Service of the Poor including Care for Creation, invited all present to reflect on how her charism continues to inspire and guide our mission today.
Sr. Patricia Lenihan, Congregational Leader of the Religious Sisters of Charity, and Sr. Laureen Dixon, Congregational Leader of the Sisters of Charity of Australia, welcomed participants from around the world. Reflecting on the theme of the celebration Sr Patricia reminded those present that ‘Mary Aikenhead’s spirit is not confined to the past but continues to live through the active ministries of our Sisters, who continue to serve with courage and generosity in many different places and circumstances, it is also kept alive through the prayer, presence and quiet witness of those who may no longer be involved in active ministry’.
Examples of how Mary Aikenhead’s spirit continues to flourish across the Congregation today were shared in a series of videos played during the service. Among these was the work of the Religious Sisters of Charity in Roma Girls Secondary School in Zambia, where access to education, care and opportunity reflects the Congregation’s continuing commitment to accompany those who are marginalised and to uphold the dignity of every person.
The ministry of the Mary Aikenhead Day Centre in Donnybrook, Dublin was also highlighted. Alongside it’s work supporting the wellbeing of older people and their families, the Centre’s Meals on Wheels service delivers meals every day to older people living in the local community.
For many, the daily visit is about far more than a meal. Some have shared that the van driver delivering the meals is the only person they will speak to that day, making each visit a valued connection.
During the service, participants also remembered our Sisters who had died during the past year and a virtual visit to Mary Aikenhead’s grave provided a quiet moment of reflection and thanksgiving.
As we commemorate the life of Venerable Mary Aikenhead, we give thanks for her enduring witness of faith, courage and compassionate service. May her example continue to inspire us to trust in Divine Providence, care for our common home, and respond generously to the needs of our world.
Caritas Christi Urget Nos. (The love of Christ urges us on)
