As they approach their first anniversary, the Sisters would like to thank all their benefactors for their prayerful support in the past year.
It has been particularly moving for the Sisters to see so many people drawn by the Holy Spirit to generously be a part of this establishment of a new little house of Our Lady in rural Australia. They give thanks to God for bringing them to an area where they are so well-received and supported by the local community and their good-hearted neighbours, both Catholic and non-Catholic alike.
Thanks to the assistance of many, the Sisters are well settled in their new home. Most importantly, they are happy to be firmly established in their simple, regular observance each day in such a safe and peaceful location, well suited to their religious life.
This past year has also seen the accomplishment of the Sisters' enclosure fence and Turn, major upgrading of plumbing infrastructure, and the installation of extra accommodation that will allow them to begin taking new vocations in the coming months. In particular, the Sisters are deeply grateful to those who generously gave their time to put in a path to link their current building to the new accommodation.
Guest accommodation for aspirants
One big adventure for the Sisters has been working out the best application for the various water sources they have. It has been a tough season with extraordinary temperature variations and many times, as they work to establish their garden, the Sisters have had reason to unite their difficulties with those of the struggling farmers around them. Nevertheless, with much perseverance and local advice and assistance, they now have a well-established vegetable garden that provides for much of their needs. They are continuing to work on planting windbreaks and visibility screening with native plants, and are very grateful to all those who have contributed seedlings.
Now the Sisters are turning their minds to the task of expanding their Choir (the place where the Sisters pray and attend Holy Mass) as well as the adjoining space for visiting friends and family to attend the liturgy. The Sisters ask for prayers that all is accomplished according to the plans of Saint Joseph, who continues to protect and guide the Sisters through these early days of their foundation.
During 2019, the website was updated to include images from around the monastery and inspirational videos. The website also now includes information on perpetual enrolments at the Carmel.
Please be assured of the continued prayers of the Sisters, who prayerfully accompany their benefactors from the cloister each day, united in the holy Hearts of Jesus, Mary and Joseph.