AAP General News (Australia)
08-09-2009
FED: Mackillop anniversary a time to reflect: Rudd
CANBERRA, Aug 9 AAP - Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has called on all Australians to reflect
on the life of Mary Mackillop, a day after the centenary of her death.
Hundreds gathered for services across the globe on Saturday to mark 100 years since she died.
They had hoped to also mark the occasion with news of her sainthood, but the Vatican's
anticipated official confirmation has yet to come through.
Mr Rudd, who has backed the appeal to make her Australia's first saint, says it is
a time of reflection for all Australians.
"She was an extraordinary Australian, an extraordinary worker for the poor," he told
reporters after attending his regular Sunday church service in Canberra.
"This is a moment, therefore, not just for commemoration and reflection and celebration
by the Catholic community, but by the entire Australian community."
The Archbishop of Sydney, Cardinal George Pell says he believes Mary MacKillop's canonisation
is a "certainty" and has urged Rome to make the declaration soon.
AAP cj/cdh
KEYWORD: MACKILLOP RUDD
2009 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.
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