NSW: Mary MacKillop SuperCat blessed by archbishop

AAP General News (Australia)
12-27-2009
NSW: Mary MacKillop SuperCat blessed by archbishop

SYDNEY, Dec 27 AAP - A busy Sydney Ferries SuperCat has been blessed by the city's
Catholic archbishop in one of the first events celebrating the impending sainthood of
Mary MacKillop.

The Mary MacKillop SuperCat has been running since 2000, but on Sunday was blessed
by Cardinal George Pell in the presence of a group of nuns and NSW Premier Kristina Keneally.

"Bless this ferry named after Blessed Mary MacKillop, bless those who will use it for
work and pleasure," Cardinal Pell said at Sydney's Circular Quay.

"The Lord calmed the seas of Galilee and brought his disciples to safety and we commend
those who use this ferry to his care."

The SuperCat carries up to 275 passengers to the city's eastern suburbs.

The premier said the blessing of the boat was a "small way to commemorate and celebrate
Mary MacKillop's life".

"She was a pioneer of aged care and caring for single mothers and worked tirelessly
to improve access to education for rural communities across the country."

Ms Keneally said she was looking forward to "coming back to rename this ferry, the
Saint Mary MacKillop".

The government would work with the church and the community to hold future Mary MacKillop
celebrations throughout Sydney and NSW.

While all Sydney ferries were safe, "after today's blessing, this is perhaps the holiest",
she added.

AAP mss/apm

KEYWORD: MACKILLOP (PIX AVAILABLE)

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