“Isn’t she a beauty?” I whisper as we stand before St Mary MacKillop Church. This unassuming church holds a powerful secret. It’s not just bricks and mortar. It’s a testament to the unwavering spirit of St Mary MacKillop.
St Mary MacKillop Church in Brisbane is more than just a place of worship. It’s a cornerstone of Brisbane’s Catholic history. It represents the enduring legacy of a woman who dedicated her life to serving the poor and educating children.
In 1869 St Mary of the Cross MacKillop arrived in Brisbane. She and five companions answered Bishop James Quinn’s call. They were to educate Brisbane’s working class and poor children. They began teaching immediately. They opened schools in South Brisbane and Maryborough. Within a decade fifteen schools and an orphanage were established. Almost half of Queensland’s Catholic school children were under their care. This incredible growth however wasn’t without conflict. Bishop Quinn clashed with St Mary over the governance of the Josephite order. Ultimately this led to their departure from Brisbane in 1880.
But the story of St Mary MacKillop and her influence on Brisbane didn’t end there. The Josephites returned in 1915. They opened more schools across the diocese. They played a significant role in shaping the education landscape of Brisbane for decades. They provided far more than just education. They served in various capacities. They were pastoral assistants religious educators. They cared for families the sick and the imprisoned.
In 1995 a shrine was erected in St Stephen’s Chapel. It honours St Mary MacKillop’s time in Brisbane. She worshipped there during her earlier years in the city. Then in 2009 a remarkable event occurred. St Mary of the Cross MacKillop was declared the patroness of the Archdiocese of Brisbane. Her legacy continues to inspire hope and compassion. Her tireless work echoes through this church. Her commitment lives on in the hearts of the people of Brisbane.
Look around you. Feel the history in these walls. St Mary MacKillop’s spirit lives here. Her dedication to serving others continues to inspire. This isn’t just a church. It’s a living monument to a remarkable life. A life dedicated to faith service and the education of Brisbane’s children.