Good Samaritan Sister 'a living storybook of love, faith, and wisdom'

As students at St Thomas’ School, Camp Hill, celebrated Book Week recently with colourful costumes, favourite stories, and literary adventures, one figure stands out for her enduring contribution to the school community, Sister Carmela Zammit SGS, reports The Catholic Leader.

Sister Carmela, a Sister of the Good Samaritan, has dedicated 40 years to supporting children’s literacy at St Thomas’, helping generations of students learn to read and develop a love for language. Although she is no longer a full-time teacher, she continues to volunteer at the school, offering her time, expertise, and care to small groups and individual students for focused reading and writing support.

Sr Carmela Zammit SGS with students from St Thomas’ School, Camp Hill. PHOTO: Catholic Leader.

Sister Carmela helps students – individual and in small groups – to develop their reading and writing, to help them build confidence, strengthen their skills and discover a genuine love for language.

“I understand my students deeply because I’ve been in their shoes. When I moved from Malta to Australia at 13, learning English was a challenge. I remember wishing I could speak it fluently. That memory fuels my mission today.”

St Thomas’ School Principal Liam Beatty said Sister Carmela’s dedication has had a profound impact on the school community.

“From her early days as a teacher to her ongoing volunteer work, Sister Carmela has left an indelible mark on our students and staff,” he said. “Many of her former students now enrol their own children here, hoping they too will experience her guidance and develop a love of literature.”

Sister Carmela’s contribution has been formally recognised, with a nomination for a Spirit of Catholic Education Award in 2025. St Thomas’ Assistant Principal Religious Education Vivienne Thompson said the nomination reflected her lifelong commitment.

“She is a living storybook of love, faith, and wisdom,” Ms Thompson said. “Sister Carmela reminds us that every child’s story matters, and that the gift of reading can change the ending of every story.”

Mr Beatty added that Sister Carmela’s legacy is celebrated across the school, with Yellow House proudly named Zammit in her honour.

“As we celebrate the Year of Compassion at St Thomas’, Sister Carmela exemplifies our Good Samaritan charism through her tireless service,” he said. “Her compassion and dedication set a standard for future generations, reminding us of all of the power of care, guidance, and literacy in shaping young lives.”

Sister Carmela’s enduring service continues to inspire students, staff, and families alike, making her an integral part of St Thomas’ School’s story.

This article by Paige Furner was published in The Catholic Leader, the publication of the Archdiocese of Brisbane.