Saint Mary’s Catholic College students experience lived faith through Sister in Residence program

For one memorable week during week 10 of Term 2, Sister Judy from the Sisters of the Good Samaritan became an integral part of life at Saint Mary’s Catholic College, Kingaroy through the College’s inaugural Sister in Residence program. 

The initiative, led by Saint Mary’s Catholic College Mission Lead Carrie Lock, provided a unique opportunity for students and the wider College community to experience firsthand the vocation and ministry of a contemporary religious sister. 

Carrie said the most valuable aspect of the week was simply Sister Judy’s presence in the school. 

“Through the experience, our students gained a deeper understanding of religious life and the values of hospitality, justice, compassion and stewardship that underpin the Good Samaritan tradition,” she said. 

“The program also strengthened the important connection between our College and parish community. Catholic education has always been at its strongest when schools and parishes work together to nurture young people in faith and values. 

“Having Sister Judy spend time not only in the College, but also supporting liturgy formation within the parish, reminded us that faith is lived beyond the classroom. It demonstrated to students that they are part of a broader faith community that walks alongside them as they grow and prepare to take their place in the world.” 

Year 12 student Claire said, Sister Judy treated each student with care, and dignity. 

“We are grateful to have been able to meet her and hear her story,” she said. 

“Sister Judy has a big heart and responded to the call from God to be a Good Samaritan Sister.” 

Year 11 student Perry commented on Sister Judy’s work ethic and how dedicated she is to her faith.  

“Sister Judy is a hard-working person who was really interesting and very present to each of us,” he said. 

Saint Mary’s Catholic College Principal Carmel O’Brien said the presence of religious sisters in schools continues to be deeply relevant today. 

“Religious sisters embody a living tradition of faith, service, and compassion that continues to shape our school community,” she said. 

“Their witness reminds students that education is about more than academic achievement, it is about developing a sense of purpose, caring for others and responding to the needs of the world with courage and generosity.”  

Carrie expressed her gratitude to the congregation for supporting the initiative. 

“I wish to thank the Good Samaritan Sisters most sincerely for supporting the Sister in Residence program at our College,” she said. 

“It has been a delightful, positive, and enriching experience for everyone involved.” 

With overwhelmingly positive feedback from students, staff and parishioners, Saint Mary’s Catholic College hopes the success of the program will encourage similar collaborations across other Brisbane Catholic Education communities, ensuring future generations have opportunities to encounter lived faith and the enduring witness of religious life.

For more information about Saint Mary’s Catholic College, Kingaroy or to enrol click here. 

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Image caption: Sister Judy with Saint Mary's Catholic College Mission Lead Carrie Lock. ©Brisbane Catholic Education, Saint Mary's Catholic College, Kingaroy (2026).