About Mary Aikenhead Ministries

Mary Aikenhead Ministries was established by the Congregation of Religious Sisters of Charity of Australia to succeed to, and to carry on and expand, various health and aged care, education and welfare ministries conducted by the Sisters of Charity of Australia.

Foundation Work

In preparation for the petition to Rome requesting approval for the establishment of Mary Aikenhead Ministries, much foundation work was undertaken, beginning first with a theological statement. This theological statement is drawn from several scripture quotes as the scriptures are enduring.

The Foundation documents include the Theological Framework, Assumptions and Guilding Principles and Ethical Framework.

Canonical Status

Mary Aikenhead Ministries was granted canonical status as a public juridic person of pontifical right by the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life on 25 April 2008 and officially established on July 1, 2009.

Under Mary Aikenhead Ministries the many ministries that have been established and developed by the Sisters of Charity, since their arrival in Australia from Ireland in 1838 will be governed by a group of Trustees, consisting initially of members of the Congregation and lay colleagues. The Trustees will ensure that the heritage, tradition and the charism of the Sisters are taken purposefully into the future.

Mary Aikenhead Ministries will invite Sisters of Charity of Australia to contribute their presence, experience, involvement, wisdom and spirituality for as long as Sisters are willing and able.

 "Our congregation's spirit and our inheritance is the gospel privilege of serving others, especially the poor. Our story is one of innovation, courage and conviction. It is our hope that this will continue. We are confident that through Mary Aikenhead Ministries the spirit of service will flourish in new and progressive ways, always alive to the spirit of the times."
Sr Elizabeth Dodds, former Congregational Leader