Sisters of Mercy celebrate Jubilees
11 May, 2022
Diamond and Silver Jubilee Celebrations
30 April 2022
Family, friends and Sisters of Mercy gathered on Saturday 30 April 2022 to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of three members, namely Sisters Marlene Fitzgibbons (Rockhampton), Mary Marise Casey (North Mackay) and Grace Bartolo (Emu Park) and the Silver Jubilee of Sr Kerry-Ann Sullivan (North Mackay). Sr Anne Keim (Community Leader – North – Qld) formally welcomed guests to the luncheon at the Rockhampton Leagues.
During the celebrations, the four Jubilarians were honoured with a fitting tribute. Later that day, the Sisters and their guests gathered with Bishop Michael McCarthy and the parish community in St Joseph’s Cathedral for the celebration of Eucharist at which the Jubilarians renewed their vows together with the other Sisters of Mercy who were present.
On 9 December 1961, their First Profession Day, Sisters Marlene, Marise and Grace publicly declared their intent to follow Jesus and to live as vowed women religious in the example of our founder, Catherine McAuley. With the same intention, Sr Kerry-Ann made her First Profession on 9 June 1996. As Sisters of Mercy, these women have been involved in a variety of ministries including teaching, nursing, pastoral care, spiritual direction, parish and youth ministry and community outreach to those in need. Though each Sister has lived her call to discipleship in her own unique way, on the occasion of their Jubilee, they shared a depth of gratitude to God for countless blessings received over the years.
We offer a sincere and heartfelt ‘Congratulations’ to Marlene, Marise, Grace and Kerry-Ann whose gifts have enriched the lives of many people in our Diocese and beyond, in the places where they have witnessed to Gospel values and a Mercy way of life.
Joanne Molloy RSM
