Mass of Thanksgiving for the Canonisation of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop

This morning we went to the Basilica of St Paul outside the Walls for the Mass of Thanksgiving, Canonisation of Saint Mary MacKillop. This is the place outside the walls of Rome that the body of the Apostle Paul was buried. Oh what a joyous occasion. Twenty-five bishops were present, over 150 priests, the Australian Parliamentary delegation and the Ambassador to the Holy See, His Excellency Tim Fischer the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart and thousands of pilgrims. Cardinal George Pell was the main celebrant assisted by Deacon Boniface from Darwin.



Louise Jeffery was thrilled to have her moment with Kevin Rudd.
The Foreign Minister has been a wonderful presence and support throughtout the past days.
He was a hit especially with the young people - he has a gracious charm.  


As we all gathered the mood was high excitement and gratification. It was exciting to catch up with other friends and relatives as we all gathered.



Caitlin Nye was thrilled to have time to meet up with her cousin Senator Ursula Stephens, Tim Fischer and Sister Anne Derwin

There was a moving indigenous cleansing ceremony which lead the formal entrance procession, followed by many other ethnic groups. It was very inspiring to be part of an Australasian Liturgy in such an important Basilica in the heart of our Church. It was like we were a child coming of age.


Heidi Welsh carrying the Colours for the Bathurst Diocese.

 'The Australian Bishops preceded by the Sisters of St Joseph and various groups whose association with the spirit and charism of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop have profoundly influenced and shaped their lives as Christians.' Heidi Welsh carried the colours representing the Bathurst Diocese.

 

Cleansing Ceremony