12 hours to the Canonisation

I started my day by visiting St Peter's and finding some Sisters of St Joseph. The first banner of  Blessed Mary MacKillop was hung on the facade. You can see it to the right of the shortest Sister. (Double click the pic). What is happening with the purple hair second from the left? We had a great chat and good laugh. Australian Religious are so grounded - a real blessing in Rome.

With twelve hours to go before the ceremony, tonight we spent in the company of many Sisters of St Joseph from all over the world. There was a Vigil concert and Service just near St Peter's. The gig was put together with the help of the Australian Catholic University and supported by a full house of Australian supporters. See the group leaders trying to organise their people. Organised mayhem. There was a matinee show as well this afternoon and it too was full. Tomorrow will be a flood of Aussies I bet.

The Vigil was dignified, energetic, informative and at times moving. There was also the essential Australian humour. Kevin Rudd spoke very well and the presentations were wonderful. We heard some beautiful music with many words to match. Loved it.

MARY MACKILLOP PRAYER
God of vision, we thank you for Mary MacKillop
and Julian Tenison Woods who loved this land and its peoples
As we struggle to realise our hopes for a more just country,
May we witness to the meaning of fair play for people and land.
May we value the wisdom of indigenous peoples.
May we act to halt more damage to the earth.
May we live simply, love tenderly and walk humbly.
We ask this in the name of Christ. Amen