Sainthood

Update on Canonisation of Blessed Mary MacKillop

2008 has seen the interest in devotion to Blessed Mary MacKillop grow constantly.  Numerous favours continue to be granted throughout Australia and other parts of the world.  We continue to search for the cure that will meet the medical criteria for a miracle.  We are presently investigating a small number at a deeper level.

Mary MacKillop has been declared a patron for World Youth Day.  It is amazing to see the interest of the young people and their commitment to her and her charism.  When the WYD Cross and icon visited Mary MacKillop place last Sunday there was a very moving testimony from a young teacher who attended a Josephite school and recognised the charism in herself.  She has just completed two years in the Warmun community in the Kimberleys.  Other young people are also inspirational in their commitment of time and enthusiasm to many in need.

On the 23rd April I go to Rome and while there will present a dossier to Pope Benedict XVI giving evidence indicating the growth of devotion to Mary MacKillop in recent times.  The sisters from the Pastoral care office, the WYD office and the MacKillop centres have all provided material.  In addition there are letters from some people in civil offices and from those who have received favours.  It has become an impressive document.

There seems to be an expectation that the Holy Father may have news when he comes to visit.  However, we can only continue to pray and hope that the canonisation will occur when the time is right for the Church and the world.

Maria Casey rsj