NSW Premier praises Mary MacKillop

Mary MacKillop was an extraordinary woman who stood up for what she believed in, NSW
Premier Kristina Keneally says.
Mother Mary's canonisation on Sunday was an opportunity for all Australians to
celebrate her determination, Ms Keneally said at Mary MacKillop Place in North
Sydney.
She was attending a private vigil held at the chapel, where Mother Mary is buried,
for dignitaries including federal Opposition Leader Tony Abbott.
Ms Keneally said Mother Mary was among those figures in Australian history who
transcended the group to which they belonged and became iconic figures for all,
regardless of faith.
"People like Caroline Chisholm or Weary Dunlop or Bernie Banton," she said.
"Mary MacKillop is one of those figures - she is celebrated today by the Catholic
church but she's equally celebrated by all of Australia.
"She has become an example to the world of what it is to be a person of strength and
of faithfulness."
Asked if she herself would be praying to Mother Mary for a miracle at the state
election in March 2011, Ms Keneally replied: "I pray every day".