October Reflection by St Marys Community

On 19th October 2025, the Sisters of St Marys joyfully celebrated the canonisation of their newly declared saint, St Maria Troncatti, alongside parishioners of Our Lady of the Rosary Parish. The day began with a warm welcome from Fr Brendan, parish priest, followed by an inspiring PowerPoint presentation from Sr Anna Pham and Sr Sialei (Sr Sia) Lagaiaa. Their PowerPoint highlighted the extraordinary life of St Maria Troncatti and the miracle that officially confirmed her sainthood. Parishioners and children received the presentation with enthusiasm, later joining the Sisters for a delightful morning tea, lollies for the children and cake — a simple yet heartfelt gesture of unity and thanksgiving.

The afternoon unfolded into a special gathering dedicated to benefactors. This was not just an event; it was a celebration of gratitude. Sr Sia opened the gathering with a short but impactful presentation on the mission of the SPR Province, which comprises of Australia, Samoa, and Solomon Islands. She explained the diverse ministries each Sister and community undertakes, from education and youth formation to pastoral care and social outreach particularly to young women. Benefactors expressed appreciation for this new insight, many admitting they had not fully realised the depth and reach of the Salesian Sisters’ work in these regions.

Sr Sia’s presentation also highlighted the Preventive System of Education, inspired by St John Bosco and faithfully implemented by the Sisters. This system, rooted in reason, religion, and loving-kindness, continues to shape young lives, particularly in the mission at Don Bosco Youth Centre, St Marys. Sr Sia concluded with an uplifting message: “We are all called to be missionaries of Christ in our own way — living as active witnesses of the Gospel”.

Sr Anna then invited everyone into a moment of reflection with a touching story about a priest with two baskets: one for petitions and one for gratitude. The basket of petitions was overflowing, while the gratitude basket remained almost empty — a gentle reminder that we often forget to thank God for the blessings we receive. Sr Anna’s words resonated deeply: “Today, we pause to give thanks — for generosity, for care, and for the gift of each other.”

This spirit of thanksgiving continued with a graceful Samoan dance from Sr Anna and Sr Sia, a joyful expression of gratitude for benefactors. Laughter and applause filled the room as Sisters and guests shared stories, memories and hopes of their journey together the past few years and for the future mission.

The gathering concluded in prayer with a decade of the rosary and Marian hymn led by Sr Anna which all prayed in front of the sacred space dedicated to St Maria Troncatti and relic. It was a serene and grace-filled moment, drawing together all hearts in prayer. The Sisters expressed their heartfelt thanks to benefactors for their unwavering support that sustains their mission with a simple gift of a decade bracelet handcrafted in Vietnam, a prayer card of St Maria Troncatti and sweet chocolate.

St Maria Troncatti’s canonisation reminds us that holiness is not distant or unattainable — it is lived in daily acts of service, courage, and love. Her life among the Shuar people of Ecuador, where she served as nurse, surgeon, and peacemaker, continues to inspire the Sisters and all who encounter her story.

The benefactors’ role cannot be overstated. Their generosity enables the Sisters to provide pastoral care, service to outreach support groups and educative evangelisation through catechising and mission at Don Bosco Youth Centre with and for young people and young at heart. In celebrating them, the Sisters reaffirmed the heart of the Salesian Sisters mission:  to be signs of God’s love, hope, and joy for the young and all whom we encounter, dedicating ourselves to forming good Christians and honest citizens through education and pastoral care, inspired by the Preventive System and Mary’s motherly care.

It was a fruitful and wonderful gathering of accompaniment and building connections expressed in some of our benefactors’ messages: “Fantastic afternoon. Chris and I came home full, happy and relaxed. Sr Sia and you have done us proud. Thank you, Sisters, for inviting us. God bless. From Evelyn & Martin”. Another message: “Sr Anna thank you, it was a beautiful celebration. We loved your dance and your Samoan outfit. From Fleur & Nicki”. A message from one of our youth members “Thank you Sr Sia for inviting me. I always feel welcome. It was nice to meet familiar faces and now I can say hello to them at mass- I feel like part of the family. Your Samoan dance was beautiful especially Sr Anna who did well. From Lea”. Another message: “Sr Sia and Sr Anna, thank you so much for allowing me to be part of your family and community. I am so blessed to have met you Sr Sia, and Sr Anna who welcomed me as her own prodigal daughter. I love you guys so much. Please keep me in your prayers as I keep you both in mine. God bless you and the work you do for our young people. From Donnabell”.  

May this joyful occasion inspire us to live with hearts full of gratitude, hands ready to serve, and spirits eager to share the light of Christ. And may the intercession of St Maria Troncatti continue to guide and bless us all.

Click on the photo gallery below  to view some photos of this special occasion.

By St Marys community