Josephites meet to discuss Rural Ministry

We cannot run on Empty

Forty Sisters of St Joseph and Associates who work in rural areas of NSW, from as far afield as Mungindi to the north and Eden on the south coast, gathered at Dubbo for their Tenth Annual Rural Conference. This year’s theme was Living Wholistically.

The participants working in parishes, prisons and isolated rural areas appreciated the opportunity to take time out with others who work in similar circumstances. Margaret Snodgrass, Chaplain of the Wellington Correction Centre commented, “I especially found that the presentations by Sr Ann Gilroy and Vicki Walker helped me to have a better understanding of aboriginal culture and the connection of our First Peoples with their land”.

The pressing needs of rural communities as they face the uncertainty of prolonged drought, and financial and emotional struggles, were at the heart of the Conference conversations. Sr Julie, one of the participants, said “I felt that the Conference responded to the title and I leave here with a challenge to build time into my day for self-care to enable me to be a more effective worker in my ministry.” Our recognition of our need for self-care reminded us of the need to support those who are struggling in rural areas to live wholistically. Similarly, when faced with the pressing needs of difficult situations it is easy to feel guilty for taking time for ‘self-care’. However, we encourage all to do this, for in doing so we can then offer a more effective response to life’s difficult situations.

Sisters of St Joseph at the Conference pledged to continue their ongoing commitment and support for rural people.

Madeline Breen rsj