The Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth are marking their 150th Jubilee Year with a range of celebrations, both at the local and international level.
Last month, for the first time, the Holy Spirit Province in Australia hosted the General Conference, an annual assembly of the General Administration and the Leaders of the Congregation’s Provinces and Region.
The Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth after a Mass celebrating the annual assembly of the General Administration and the Leaders of the Congregation’s Provinces and Region. PHOTO: CSFN website.
“It is a time of reflection, discernment, and dialogue about the ongoing mission and challenges of our Congregation,” said Sr Grace Roslawska CSFN.
“For many of our leaders, it was their first time setting foot on Australian soil, and the experience which left a lasting impression.”
Sr Grace said one of the Sisters attending the General Conference of the Congregation captured the spirit of a truly memorable gathering, saying: “Australia impressed me with the beauty of its extraordinary landscapes, open hearts, and human kindness.”
Another Sister said: “I saw the beautiful sacrificial work of the sisters, their perseverance, their hearts beating with compassion for those who most need the closeness of another person.”
This sentiment was echoed by many, who were deeply moved by the dedication and love with which the Sisters in Australia serve.
“For the sisters, boundaries exist only in space, but never in love,” another reflected. “Their service is proof that goodness does not ask about place or distance. It is there where someone opens their heart and gives to others.”
The natural beauty of Australia also left a profound impact.
“I am always amazed at how beautifully the beauty in nature is preserved and the uniqueness of God's creation in it,” one Sister noted. Others were captivated by the vibrant wildlife: “White cockatoos and brightly colourful parrots fly everywhere. The nature is also amazing, unforgettable.”
Even the air in Australia was something to marvel at. “When we got off the plane in Sydney, I immediately felt that the air had its specific, very pleasant smell. Apparently, it's the aroma of eucalyptus… something unique and unforgettable.”
Beyond the landscapes and wildlife, it was the people—and especially the Sisters—who made the deepest impression. “I like the Sisters' engagement and the way they conduct their apostolate. I am enchanted by the openness and hospitality of the Sisters and the people I met.” Another added, “Smiles, caring attention, and open hearts created a unique, friendly atmosphere that I will remember for a long time.”
Despite the challenges of secularisation, many were encouraged by what they witnessed. “I saw that the Church in Australia is alive and evangelical,” one Sister observed. “I am grateful to God that I could experience the context in which our sisters serve in Australia and how much their presence means in this place on Earth.”
The vastness of the land, the multicultural environment, and the slower pace of life compared to Europe were also noted. “I did not experience the rush and hustle that we increasingly experience on the streets of Europe,” one Sister remarked.
Meanwhile, in Perth, prayers of praise and gratitude filled Our Lady of Grace Church, North Beach when the Sisters celebrated their Anniversary Mass on Sunday, May 25
The Sisters in Perth, marking their Jubilee Year with a special cake, following a parish anniversary Mass. PHOTO: CSFN.
The Sisters from Infant Jesus Convent, together with Sister Małgorzata Kozub, Provincial Leader, the Associates of the Holy Family, the religious of Perth Archdiocese, Our Lady of Grace School Staff, parishioners and friends, gathered in large numbers to thank God for the 150 years of service of the sisters around the world.
The specially prepared Mass, led by Father Hyginus Ebede, Parish Priest, began with an entrance procession led by Chiara and Kai, captains of Our Lady of Grace School, who carried the Jubilee candles to the altar. Regina and Tess, representing the Associates of the Holy Family, placed the relics of Mother Foundress and the Congregation’s martyred sisters onto the Prayer Focus, followed by Sister Emilia, who brought forward the Covenant of Love, symbolising the Sisters’ religious consecration. A bouquet of flowers placed at the bottom of the Prayer by Bronia and Isla symbolised the beauty, growth and transformation of the Congregation over the past 150 years.
“The excellent parish choir added inspiration and solemnity to the Eucharistic Celebration,” said Sr Helen Tereba CSFN.
“No celebration is complete without an opportunity to share good food and good stories. After Mass, everyone gathered in the Parish Centre for refreshments prepared by the ladies of the parish.
“Of special significance to the three sisters serving in North Beach was the presence of approximately 25 religious women from the Perth Archdiocese who came to celebrate with us. The presence of these sisters in such large numbers exceeded our expectations. It gave us a strong sense of belonging to a religious family that extends beyond our small local community.
“In gratitude, we thank God for yesterday, adore Him in our present, and look to our tomorrow with trust.”
This article was drawn from two articles published on the website of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth. They are available here and here.