Mother Ursula Frayne (5 October 1816 to 9 June 1885)
This week we celebrate the 140th Anniversary of the life and legacy of Mother Ursula Frayne. Ursula Frayne was a woman of extraordinary courage and deep faith. At a time when few women travelled far from home, she left everything familiar and set sail from Ireland to the far edges of the world. She arrived in Australia with little more than her trust in God and her unwavering commitment to Mercy.
What made Ursula remarkable wasn’t just her leadership or determination, but her ability to see possibility where others saw obstacles. In the face of hardship, she chose hope. When resources were scarce, she chose creativity. And when her mission was challenged, she chose love, especially for those on the margins.
Her story invites us to ask ourselves: What does it mean to live Mercy today? Ursula didn’t wait for the perfect moment or perfect conditions. She responded to the needs before her, boldly and compassionately. In a world still marked by injustice, inequality, and indifference, we are called to that same spirit: to listen, to respond, and to act with courage and kindness.
So, we pray…
God of Mercy,
You called Ursula Frayne to walk with courage into the unknown,
trusting in your guidance and opening her heart to those in need.
Her life was a testimony to your love, alive in service and compassion.
Inspire us with her
spirit.
Help us to see beyond our comfort,
to stand with the vulnerable,
to speak with truth,
and to act with love.
When we are afraid,
give us courage.
When we are tired, give us strength.
When we are unsure, give us faith.
May we, like
Ursula, be people of vision and hope.
May we live Mercy—not just in words,
but in the choices we make each day.
We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
Amen.