The Feast of Our Lady, Help of Christians (24 May), not only celebrates Mary as patroness of Australia, but also as patroness of the Carmelites in Australia and Timor-Leste.
The first synod of Bishops in Australia in 1844 chose Mary as patron of the fledgling Church under the title of Our Lady, Help of Christians. It is an ancient title for Mary. St John Chrysostom was the first to use it in the year 345.
When the Carmelites in Australia formally became a Province in 1948, Our Lady, Help of Christians was chosen as the new Province’s patroness.
Today, Carmelites in Australia and Timor-Leste still rely on Mary’s companionship and protection as we look forward in faith and hope to the future.
Almighty, ever living God,
grant, through the intercession of Our Lady, Help of Christians,
wisdom to our leaders and integrity to our citizens,
so that, under her protection,
we may know harmony, justice and peace.
Through Christ our Lord. Amen
