During their Pilgrimage of Hope to Numurkah, Cobram parishioners were immersed in the history and enduring spirit of St Mary MacKillop and the Josephite Sisters that still inspire their community today.
After prayer and preparation, the Pilgrims set out on 7 May to the Mary MacKillop Indigenous Garden and History Trail at St John the Baptist Church in nearby Numurkah. On arrrival they participated in a deeply prayerful outdoor Mass celebrated by Fr Junjun Amaya in the peaceful surrounds of the Garden. Following the Eucharist, Numurkah parishioners welcomed the Cobram pilgrims with a guided tour, sharing stories of St Mary MacKillop and the early presence of the Josephite Sisters—the “Brown Joeys”—in the region.
Pilgrims were particularly moved to learn that Numurkah was home to the first Josephite foundation in Victoria. For many, signing the Garden’s visitor book was more than a formality—it was a moment of reflection and gratitude for the legacy of Australia’s first saint.
The afternoon concluded with tea in the presbytery, where pilgrims and hosts exchanged stories and reflections.
Fr Junjun described the pilgrimage as a personally profound experience:
“Visiting a place so close to home where St Mary MacKillop’s mission took root was inspirational. Hearing firsthand how the Josephite Sisters shaped the faith and life of the local community left a deep impression on all of us.”
The Cobram parish community expressed heartfelt thanks to their Numurkah neighbours for their generous hospitality and shared faith.
