By Emma Jolliff
A nineteenth century New Zealand nun is a step closer to becoming recognised as this country's first catholic saint.
The case for elevating Suzanne Aubert, founder of the Sisters of Compassion, is being backed by an Australian who helped push for that country's first saint.
“She's a New Zealand pioneer woman who was a holy woman, recognised by people from all walks of life, backgrounds and religions,” says Father Maurice Carmody.
Sister Maria Casey, former postulator for Australia's first saint, Mary Mackillop, is visiting to push along Sister Aubert's claim for sainthood, a long and complicated process.
“So that there's a real integrity and there is not room for future contradiction or for skullduggery, for want of a better word,” says Sister Casey.
Sister Aubert was born in Lyon, France in 1835, but came to New Zealand as a missionary to work with the underprivileged, particularly Maori.
She was a nurse who spoke Maori before she spoke English
“They shared their knowledge of Maori herbal remedies which she combined with her own knowledge to produce these medicines here,” says Father Carmody.
Sister Aubert's Sisters of Compassion took care of abandoned children in Jerusalem near Whanganui.
Father Maurice Carmody has already presented the case to the Vatican.
“It's then examined by a committee of three historians and three theologians and that's the stage it's at now,” he says.
But getting help from the Australian who was instrumental in getting that country's first saint recognised, is being seen as a significant boost towards Suzanne Aubert's claim.
3 News