Who we are

Our story really began in 1933 on Bruny Island, off the south east coast of Tasmania, Australia. A newly-ordained young country priest, Fr John Corcoran Wallis, was visiting Mrs Kit Hawkins when asked: “Father, why can’t we have Sisters to teach our children? Doesn’t anyone care about us people in the bush?”

Fr John cared deeply, and the question stayed with him. Over the ensuing years a vision formed in his mind, of women going into rural and outback areas, seeking out people beyond the reach of the care and supports so readily available to others; women who would visit people in their homes, support, encourage, counsel, teach and empower them to nourish their families and communities.

Eleven years later, on 8 July 1944 in Launceston, Tasmania, the first four women came together: Gwen Morse, Monica Carroll, Kath Moore and Joyce O’Brien. Later that year they were joined by Valerie Casey and Agnes Ryan. This courageous group of women became the foundation of our community of Missionary Sisters of Service.

Over the following years our community grew in numbers and into its mission and identity. Initially focused on rural and outback areas, our vision grew to include people in more populated areas who can also find themselves on the margins. Our missionary spirit continues to this day; we provide friendship and support where we can, in whatever we’re doing and wherever we are living.