St Joseph’s Primary School honours a Legacy of Mercy as Sister Angela Mary Doyle turns 100

15/09/2025

​From left to right: former Principal of St Joseph’s Primary School Micheal O’Sullivan who is currently Manager - School Improvement Team, Sister Angela Mary Doyle, Principal Nicole Cole with St Joseph's Primary School, Kangaroo Point students ©Brisbane Catholic Education (2025).

Marking her 100th birthday recently, Sister Angela Mary Doyle was honoured by the St Joseph’s Primary School, Kangaroo Point school community today (Monday, 15 September), paying tribute to a remarkable century of faith, wisdom, and service. 

With a hundred reasons to celebrate, the special liturgy is a testament to Sister Angela Mary’s devotion across generations of students. Sister Angela Mary celebrated her 100th birthday in August.  

Sister Angela Mary said she was 'delighted' to once again, stand inside the gates and church at St Joseph's, where she began her Mercy work so many years ago.  

“I still love that school and the children I knew and loved there,” she said. 

St Joseph’s Primary School Assistant Principal Religious Education Leree Mazzer said even though Sister Angela Mary was at St Joseph’s for only 6 months in 1947, her influence, the Charism of the Sisters of Mercy, and their foundress, Catherine McAuley, is woven into the fabric of the school. 

“Sister Angela Mary’s visit was not only a celebration of longevity, but a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of compassion, service, and faith that she instilled during her time at St Joseph’s back in 1947, when she first began teaching,” she said. 

“She began her journey as a young Sister of Mercy at St Joseph’s, arriving in Brisbane with little more than a squashed banana and rosary beads in her pocket.
 
“This story has become emblematic of her humble beginnings and Sister Angela Mary’s unwavering devotion to her students. 

“Her time at the school laid the foundation for a life of extraordinary service, particularly in healthcare and social justice, where she became a tireless advocate for the marginalised and vulnerable. 

“From the current Irish teachers who were thrilled to meet her and share stories of faith and heritage, to our students who were astonished to learn that she had once taught in their classrooms, Sister Angela Mary’s presence continues to inspire generations.”
 
Leree said the liturgy held in Sister Angela Mary’s honour was a “deeply moving tribute”. 

“The liturgy featured Gaelic prayers, student performances, and heartfelt gifts including handmade rosary beads and fresh bananas, symbols of her journey and the love she inspired,” she said.
 
“Staff and students also came together to reflect on the values Sr Angela Mary championed, kindness, courage, and mercy. 

“The celebration was a reminder that the legacy of one person can ripple through time, touching lives in ways both seen and unseen.” 

Also present during the 100th Birthday celebrations were long term friend and former Principal of St Joseph’s Primary School Micheal O’Sullivan who is currently Manager - School Improvement Team.

For more information about St Joseph’s Primary School, Kangaroo Point or to enrol click here. 

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