Together with the University of Divinity, we’re delighted to announce the 2027 Emma Wallis Scholarship (Emma Wallis is the mother of our founder, Fr John Wallis). As Missionary Sisters of Service, we’re proud to continue supporting opportunities for education, faith and service, and encouraging people who will make a meaningful contribution to the Church and wider community.
The scholarship provides up to $23,000 annually for two years to support a postgraduate student undertaking theological studies at the University of Divinity, helping to nurture theological education and pastoral leadership in Australia.
Interested in applying, or know someone who might be? Find out more about the scholarship, including eligibility and application details, via this link.
Applications close Friday 20 November 2026.
ABOUT EMMA WALLIS
Emily Kathleen Wallis (Emma) was born 5th May 1882 in Yea, Victoria, to Irish parents John Corcoran and Maria McAsey. They lived in the rural district just north of Yea. Emma married Abraham Knight Wallis (Abe) from near Seymour on 22nd January 1908 at St Brigid’s Church, Nicholson Street, North Fitzroy. They eventually settled at “Wirrabong” in Homewood, 10 kilometres from Yea on Taungurung Country. Emma and Abe had six children, one girl and five boys: Marie, John, Donald, Chester, Brian and Charles. Three of the children were profoundly deaf.
Her son John was ordained for the Archdiocese of Hobart in 1932 and became the founder of the Missionary Sisters of Service in 1944. When John went to the seminary in Sydney in 1927, Emma set up a cafe on Old Sydney Road in Seymour to raise funds to pay for the education of the children, including John at the seminary. John sought his mother’s wisdom, and acknowledged her spirituality as an influence, in his own development. Emma died on 5th June 1955.