Sisters' Stories
Interview
with Sister Vitalis - Hospitality/Liaison in maternity ward,St John of God Hospital, Murdoch, WA
An opener for anyone who might not know you: would you tell us your name and what you do.
My name is Vitalis Kilroy. I'm a Sister of St. John of God. I work with mothers and babies as a liaison/hospitality person in St Mary's Ward of St John of God Health Care, Murdoch, W.A.
The Sisters of St. John of God have come to a definite ownership of the active nature of religious life. The Sisters have a great variety of works and living situations. How does your living situation affect your work?
I live within a five minute drive from work. It is very convenient. I find my community very supportive and understanding. I have no problems in relation to the work and living situation
How does your work affect your prayer life?
It is easy to find time for prayer. We have some communal prayer and I find that life-giving. I tend to pray when I'm relaxed rather than rushing to beat the clock.
What are the positives about living with a small group of religious women?
We get to know and understand each other at a deeper level. There are less communication problems. Our sharing can be done informally.
What are the challenges?
Personality difficulties at times. Having to be present for each other can be demanding and constant.
Besides changes in work and ways of living, there is an exceptionally vibrant growth in the Sisters' spiritual life. What is the most significant development in your own spiritual journey?
My spiritual life has changed over the years. From elements of fear I now feel relaxed in the Lord. From the days of saying prayers +, I find myself being more conscious of God's unconditional love and favour. There is a mindfulness that God is always with me, more of a present moment gift. I have an inner loving relationship with God which is special and consoling. So that saying many prayers is not that important now.
The nature of your life calls you to move to the place that needs you. Where do you live now?
In Morphett Crescent, Bateman, W.A.
What do you like about living in Bateman?
It is very central, close to work, shops and Church. It is a nice small neighbourhood. We have a unique Church Community with 63 different nationalities, many are Asian. They are so involved and committed to the life of the Church that they inspire my own faith.
A lot of your experience has been teaching mothers with new babies. But what have you learned from the babies that you could share with us?
Babies are real persons with their own unique personalities from day one. They respond to love and tenderness. They recognize outside voices as distinct from their parents and siblings, they can process small amounts of information from a very early age, recognize the outline of their parents faces, especially that of the mother and relate and respond to her. They love their food and comfort. They cannot tell us yet why they are crying.
If you had magical power and you could do whatever you wanted - what would you change in the way your sisters are now?
If I had a magical power I would put more emphasis on community living and encourage new vibrant members to join religious life, so that our wisdom and experience could help them and in turn we be transformed by their modern thinking and spirituality.
Return to Looking in on the John of Gods
