Being in Rural Areas

Rural ministry has been fundamental to Josephite ministry from its very beginnings. Mary MacKillop and Julian Tension Woods were led by God to respond to the ‘misery and wretchedness’ of the ‘bush children’ and the ‘afflicted poor’ (SOSJ Constitution 1).

Josephite commitment continues in many ways across each of the countries in which we minister. Many, many Sisters are still in rural areas and are a vital presence providing support, encouragement and pastoral care. With a decline in clergy many provide the only regular face of the church and enable the coming together of the Christian community as well as providing support in times of death and loss. For many Sisters, living in country and rural areas brings to birth in them the essence of their Josephite call.

Sisters live among the people, become part of and participate fully in the local community and assist in whatever way possible. In rural communities the Sisters join with the community in celebrating life together and mutually supporting each other in coping with isolation, climate and the impact of rural decline.

While you are given a taste of some rural ministries here we remember all those who quietly day in and day out respond to needs of rural areas.

• MacKillop Rural Services in NSW
• MacKillop Rural Network
• Hauroto Mission
• Gulf Savannah Pastoral Ministry