Saint Mary MacKillop - Saint Mary of the Cross
We all have giants in our lives who inspired us 
and pointed us in the direction to become something greater than we could imagine. These giants walk among us, teach us, parent us, guide and protect us from ourselves, perhaps, or from dangers unknown. What they all inherently possess is the strength of their convictions. Further, they demonstrate a resounding determination to get jobs done—jobs that are often undesirable, difficult and un appreciated by those in authority. One such giant in my own life, a religious sister, dear friend and fighter for the abused, introduced me to yet another heroic woman.
Such is the great life of Saint Mary MacKillop (1848 -1909), who is the patron saint of Australia, Archdiocese of Brisbane, and the Knights of the Southern Cross. Her feast day is celebrated each year on August 8th. She is the foundress of the Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (Josephites) and was canonized on October 17, 2010, by Pope Benedict XVI, as the first Australian Saint.
Saint Mary MacKillop lived a holy life of devotion to the poor, was hardworking and suffered much because of her beliefs. She stood up to Church officials to report child abuse by a priest in her area. In a terrible turn of events, another cleric, who was a friend to the accused priest, held a grudge and used his influence with the Bishop to excommunicate Mother Mary MacKillop from the Church, with "insubordination" as the reason. During this time, she did not waiver in her Faith. And, although greatly challenged, her religious community continued in their ministry to educate the poor. On his deathbed, the Bishop ordered the excommunication to be lifted. Mother Mary MacKillop was restored to her position and an Episcopal Commission completely exonerated her.
Hard work, determination and fortitude in fighting for the rights of the poor and abused led to an amazing legacy left by Mother MacKillop. Through much adversity, she fought and won the horrors of what politics, ignorance, jealousy and fear can do—even in the Church. She is a hero for our times, for all who strive to have their voices heard, and for all victims of abuse.
References:
Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Sacred Heart. https://www.sosj.org.au/our-foundress-mary-mackillop/canonisation-2/
America Magazine, October 18, 2010. https://www.americamagazine.org/issue/751/editorial/saint-our-time
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