Newcastle has a convent! Working within the community, are a handful of women who sacrifice their lives to God, for the upliftment of others. Yet, their work often goes unnoticed. Not anymore as we love telling Newcastillians about unsung heroes!
Who are these women? Why have they chosen a lifestyle where the material world is cast aside for a closer relationship with God?
Situated at Hilldrop stands the Tyburn Convent. A convent in Newcastle? The convent was officially opened at the end of November 2016. Four nuns moved in at the start of 2017.
“We were initially at Pax Christi, opposite St Peter and St Paul’s Roman Catholic Church,” says Sister Mary.
At present, there are four nuns living at the convent. The convent falls under Rowland Park, a multi-use precinct for the Catholic Diocese of Dundee. “We have a South African sister who is currently in Cambodia for six months, a sister from India, Mozambique, Ireland and a pre-novice from Johannesburg.”
But what role does a nun play in society?
Sister Mary explains that the four sisters pray together and hold adoration daily. “We also do ministry work. For example, I work for Bishop Graham Rose, and we work on community projects for the Diocese,” explains Sister Mary.
Community projects include assisting the poor, pre-schools, home-based carers, orphans and vulnerable children, as well as building projects.
How does one become a sister? Why would a person shun a material-based life?
“It is a choice and a calling from the Lord. There is a formation period where you make temporary vows. After six years, you take your permanent vows.”
Sister Mary elaborates further in explaining that working with people, trying to make a difference is a driving force. “We are an international congregation, doing our best to bring God’s life for everyone.”
As the sisters work silently in the community, their convent and church a base of operation, they are commended for giving back to the community and they do it with a smile and expect nothing in return.
True Christians do not look for approval or a pat on the back for doing God’s work and these wonderful Sisters truly exemplify that statement. Some food for thought.
We applaud these amazing protectors of the lost, hurt and forgotten, may they always be blessed.
