Sr Margaret Mary: Compliance was “expected”
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When did you know you had a vocation?
I’d finished my midwifery at St Vincent’s Maternity and was thankful I’d passed. There was a chapel on the ground floor which I had frequented. I think the sister-in-charge must have notice this, and she got me to see a Jesuit friend, who visited the hospital. He told me I had a vocation.
How did you family react?
My mother was pleased. I don’t know how my father felt, but he would have been influenced by my mother.
What was the process like in 1952 of joining the Sisters of Charity?
Very radical. I needed appropriate underwear, a black dressing gown, and a black dress.
How many joined with you, how many left?
Fourteen of us joined the novitiate, six became Sisters of Charity. Three of us are now deceased.
You were a nurse – what were you keen on pursuing?
I was really connected to nursing, and had completed three nursing courses – general, infectious diseases, and midwifery, by the time I entered.
What is the major difference you see in Religious Life compared to when you first entered.
It was very regimented. The whole day was mapped out and I was expected to comply. I had no time to myself, could not go to my bedroom during the day.
What was your most challenging time?
Not being treated like an adult.
Was there a time that was more than usually rewarding?
When I was given a small charge position at my training school.
When people discover you are a Religious sister what is their reaction?
Mostly welcoming.
What do you see as the future for apostolic life in Australia?
To be with people, to listen to them, to assure them they are cared for.