Gratitude and compassion - Sr Helen

For all of us, Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth throughout the world, 2025 was truly a significant year — a time marked by prayer, reflection, study, and joyful celebration. Yet the real meaning of such a year cannot be measured only by the events themselves, but by the lasting fruits they continue to bear in our personal lives and within our communities.

The Jubilee celebrations offered a beautiful opportunity to introduce the spirituality and legacy of our Mother Foundress to many people who had never encountered Blessed Frances Siedliska or our Blessed Martyred Sisters. Throughout the year, I found myself deeply grateful for the faith, courage, and unwavering dedication of these holy women who, having once answered God’s call with a wholehearted “Yes,” remained steadfast in their mission. Their witness continues to inspire, encourage and strengthen me.

Now, as I begin a new chapter of community life and ministry in Maitland, I am grateful for the opportunity to share our charism more widely among my fellow workers and especially with the sick and elderly to whom I bring the Eucharist. Listening to the struggles, sorrows, and hopes of families each day reminds me how privileged I am to belong to a congregation whose mission places families at the very centre of its care and compassion... and so... the mission of Blessed Frances Siedliska moves forward to the next Jubilee!

REFLECTION QUESTION How can you bring compassion and presence to those who are suffering around you?