Our charity must have a special character of humility, of modesty, of simplicity, of compassion after the example of Mary Our Blessed Mother. (Directory 10, page 5)

Let us always act as true children of our Lady of Compassion, forgetful of self and personal concerns, always affable and patient. (Directory 10, page 5)

Suzanne Aubert was totally given over to God’s Will. She says that it ‘should matter very little to us’ how our lives are spent, ‘provided the Holy Will of God is done’ in us and ‘His Holy Name is glorified.’ (Directory 11, page 5)

The merit of our actions does not depend on their importance or number, but on the degree of the love of God with which we perform them. (Directory 12, Page 5)

Prayer is simply the speech of the heart to God. We always find something to say to [others], why should we not always find something to say to God? – Even if it were only to complain confidingly to Him, even of Himself, when we feel tired or discouraged! (Directory 21, Page 8)

The presence of God does not consist in thinking of God every now and then, but in the consciousness of God’s presence in all our actions. My God I want to love You. Give me love, plenty of love. (Directory 22, Page 8)

[They] who look at their neighbour through the Heart of Jesus, cannot fail to find [their neighbour] amiable. Directory 34, Page 13

God gives His Spirit to his (people) according to times and circumstances.” (Directory, 17, page 37)

Nothing is little in the service of God. (Directory, 17, page 37)

Sanctity consists in doing perfectly the little things of daily occurrence. (Directory 22, page 40)

We should strive to be faithful in small things to prepare ourselves for the greatest.
(Directory 22, page 40)

Suzanne emphasised in her writings: “we have the share of Martha, but let us seize also on the share of Mary.” (Directory21, page 8) Again she stressed:”Our life should be a long act of faith hope and charity. It should combine the life of Martha and Mary, walking arm in arm together and never separated. Faith, hope and charity are like a trinity of distinct though indivisible virtues of which faith is the Father, hope the Son, and charity the Holy Spirit.” (Directory 25, page 41)

Do not be scandalized. Do not throw your own work upon the shoulders of your companions. Close your eyes on the mistakes and faults of others. Be broadminded.” (Directory 28, page 43)

Let us carefully cultivate hope, that small flower which we should always bring to those in need. (Directory 30, Page 44)

Live for God in God’s sight, work for Him in His Divine Presence, keep yourself united to Him by love. (Directory 34, page 45)

The fish cleaves the water with its fins, the bird the air with its wings, and both are equally safe, because each is in its own element. Let us not endeavour to go out of ours. (Directory 17, Page 38)

Nothing is little in the service of God: (Directory 22, page 40)

We should strive to be faithful in small things to prepare ourselves for the greatest. (Directory 22, Page 40)

Forget our personal troubles, and kindly sympathise in the sufferings of others. (Directory 24, Page 41)

Beware of discouragement and presumption. (Directory 27, Page 42)

Suzanne Aubert had plenty to worry about over the years. However, she urges us to “Always pick the flower of hope.” (Directory 30, page 44)

We would gain more from allowing ourselves to be seen as we are, than by trying to appear such as we really are not. (Directory 14, page 48)

Quoting St Francis de Sales, Suzanne Aubert wrote: “Simplicity is the fairest ornament of beauty and the best apology for ugliness.” Be simple in your faith, your obedience, your intentions, in your mind and in your heart…” (Directory 89, page 70)

Patience is an excellent tonic for nerves. (Directory 105, page 74)

Do not complain in bearing half of other folks’ burdens; they sometimes have to bear yours. (Directory 108, Page 75)

Suzanne Aubert had a great love for reading Scripture. Throughout the Directory she substantiated her teaching with quotes from the Bible. Her instruction to us is “to study with Jesus, according to his example.” (Directory 1, page 110)

To work for God is to pray. (Directory 111, Page 76)

Promises must be kept faithfully. (Directory 88, page 27)

The walk is an exercise just as useful and necessary as [leisure], it strengthens us both morally and physically. (Directory 5, page 108)

Jesus is the great Physician who cures as if by electricity. By the power of His love He excites us to the practice of zeal, of charity, of a spirit of sacrifice, and of the virtues. (Directory 20, page 117)

Jesus is the great Physician who applies also massage in a spiritual sense; He re-establishes in us the circulation of grace. (Directory 21, page 117)

Jesus is like a wonderful Bone-Setter. He resets all the dislocated parts of our soul. (Directory 22, page 117)

Jesus is the great Oculist who makes us see by the light of faith. (Directory 23, page 117)

Suzanne Aubert believed strongly in hospitality, in treating each person as another Christ. She wrote ”Whether the poor person carries under his rags the heroic soul of a saint…let us [see] in him the image of our Divine Sufferer – of Jesus the Man of Sorrows.” (Directory 8, page 121)

With confident faith Suzanne Aubert sings: “Let us not fear that we ask too much, the treasures of Jesus are inexhaustible. His heart urges him to open those treasures at our bidding.” (Directory 10, page 133)

A kind heart is the joy of everyone who comes in contact with it. (Directory 60, page 223)

Let us cultivate the habit of intimacy with God. (Directory 4, page 141)

Seek only the glory of God, have neither wishes nor fears, but leave yourselves in the hand of God; that is the good will to which peace is promised. (Directory 2, page 143)

Jesus Christ on earth assisted above all the poor, and the sick; and we do not see that among all the sufferers who addressed themselves to Him, a single one having been refused assistance. (Directory 34, page 167)

In affairs of business, when we follow the dictates of conscience, we lessen our responsibility. (Directory 1, page 171)

Not to acknowledge the talents and the natural gifts which we have received from God is ingratitude. (Directory 2, page 171)

In all our difficulties, let us always pray, and act according to our conscience under the Eyes of God, with-out being anxious and tormenting ourselves as to the result, which we ought to leave contentedly in the hands of God. (Directory 2, page 171)

Common sense is a spiritual gift, and the rarest gift that people possess, simply because they do not value it as highly as it deserves. (Directory 7, page 172)

Wisdom is for the soul what health is for the body. (Directory 10, page 173)

Noble thoughts are from the heart. (Directory 18, page 174)

Our soul is a fertile field in which God sows with open hands the seeds of our future happiness; we are the owners of that field; it will produce according to the amount of labour we take the trouble to give it. The crop will be what we want it to be. (Directory 21, page 175)

Life is great, it is beautiful, it is a stepping onwards towards heaven; it gains for us merits; and it is death that teaches us what life really is. (Directory 22, page 175)

Life is a journey by road. On the way we travel the dust is thick and shade is scarce-Let us know how to select the best place to halt to bathe our eyes, to shake off the dust that covers us, and to wash our sore feet. (Directory 24, page 175)

Jesus walks beside us on the road of life. (Directory 26, Page 176)

Ordinarily, we must not reproach anyone at the very moment when he has committed a fault. (Directory 27, page 176)

The more the soul gives herself to God, the more God gives himself to her, and as God has much to give, it is the soul who makes the greatest profit…” (Directory 29, page 176)

Suzanne Aubert explained ‘heaven’ as a time when we will be united to the source of our being. We will be held in admiration and joy as we ‘embrace all the riches of God’. Heaven is when we will know God clearly and plainly ‘without reserve and without end’. (Directory 4’ page 178)

The patience of the Christian must never be surprised, and must never be weary of anything. (Directory 28, page 181)

Suzanne Aubert wrote constantly of her confidence and trust in Jesus when times were desperate. “Though we have all the defects in the world, if we are really sorry for them…let us have confidence. God loves to employ defective instruments if they are docile ones.” (Directory 4, page 183)

Mary MacKillop, like Suzanne Aubert, was gifted with a heart that embraced everyone. Both women co-operated with God’s action in creating a world where the poor could flourish and live wholesome lives. The lives of these two holy women were full of the power of God’s love. They witnessed to God’s life that is lavished upon us and they showed us how we are meant to live. Suzanne Aubert wrote: “Confidence in God…enables us never to be discouraged in spite of the worst opposition, under the blows of the most unexpected and worst eventualities.” (Directory 5, page 183)

Suzanne Aubert found great support in her faith when times were hard and difficult. She wrote: “God always takes care of a soul that throws (itself) into His arms. Perfect abandonment of ourselves in all things of the future, requires great courage.” (Directory 6, page 183)

Let us deliver into the Hands of Our dear Lord all care for the future as well as all anxiety about the past. (Directory 7, page 184)

Desire only the Will of God, and will what He wills. Nothing prevents the action of God so much in our works as the hurry with which we perform them. (Directory 9, page 184)

In our struggle to grow in maturity as Christians, Jesus wants us to find rest in his gift of peace. Suzanne Aubert wrote “Let us rejoice when we find out that there is nothing in us on which we can rely, and God alone is our only hope, our strength, our only refuge.” (Directory 11, page 184)

Suzanne Aubert was a woman of great hope and trust in God’s care of her and the work of compassion. She stated: “If you do not place your confidence in Providence, where will you place it? You can do nothing, say nothing, think nothing, but by the good pleasure of God! Jesus is our hope, our Saviour…Let us abandon ourselves to Him without reserve, and He will grant us such joy, such peace…” (Directory 22-23, page 185)

Jesus is the name of His heart, of his being. It is as Jesus that he has come, that he lives, that he works…Let us then abandon ourselves to Him without reserve, and He will grant us such joy…(Directory 23, page 185)

Let us will only what God wills and nothing else. (Directory 23, page 185)

How happy should we be if we could accustom ourselves to answer to our hearts, when they are anxious about something, “Our Lord will see after it.” (Directory 28, page 186)

Let us always say in looking at ourselves: “I can do nothing”; but in looking at God, let us say: “I can do everything, and with the grace of God I will achieve everything.” (Directory 38, page 188)

The ways of God are not always our own; [God’s] designs are inscrutable, but are full of mercy and love. (Directory 39, page 188)

Forgetfulness of self is the secret of sanctity. (Directory 13, page 191)

Love of God and neighbour are joined together as an act of true worship. Suzanne Aubert adds, “Let us offer all our pains for those who are entrusted to us.” (Directory 17, page 192)

Suzanne Aubert lived what she wrote: “Let us love God alone. Let Him be really ours and let us be really His. Let Him reign in us, and let us live in Him. He is ever near us with His kindness and mercy, which He desires to pour on souls. Let us respond to His designs by the practice of charity. (Directory 2, page 195)

If we desire to promote the love of God, we must love him ourselves. (Directory 2, page 195)

Let us love God in all the creatures of God; we can find in everyone something that raises us to Him. Even the little birds preach to us, in their joyous flight and their freedom, confidence in God for the morrow.” (Directory 3, page 195)

Let us have for God a filial confidence, a loving study to do His will, a peaceable expectation of His visits; and prompt, generous, and unreserved obedience. (Directory 6, page 196)

The measure of the love of God is to love Him without measure. (Directory 8, page 196)

Is it not enough for us that God sees us? Do we reckon him as nothing? And are His Eyes indifferent to us? Does He not see even our most secret thoughts? (Directory 10, page 196)

Suzanne Aubert rejoiced as one who had been graced by God. She wrote: “What was impossible for nature to do, or the human mind to understand, God has done. His Son has become the Son of Man, and he has come night to us.” (Directory 11, page 196)

When God fights for us we are sure of victory. (Directory 12, Page 197)

Let our hearts overflow with charity towards everyone. Let us always be filled with compassion for moral miseries as well as for physical ones. (Directory 40, page 199. 58, page 223)

God loves the poor; and, consequently, He loves those who care for the poor. When one loves somebody much, one loves his friends and his servants. (Directory 46, Page 200)

The Good God, who has called us, knows us, sees us, hears us, is with us and is in us. The mercy of God is nothing else than his power and his will.” (Directory 60-61, page 202)

Kind words are the heavenly music of this world. (Directory 64, page 202)

In Jesus Christ all is love. (Directory 66, page 203)

God gives gratuitously, and does not sell. (Directory 67, page 203)

Let us be kind, and we will give happiness; for nothing gives more happiness than kindness. Let us be kind, and we will be happy ourselves, and we will become Saints in imitating Him Who spent His life on earth “going about doing good.” (Directory 73, page 204)

Before everything, God is good. His goodness is His Essence, His Life. That is why He has summarised all our obligation in the law of love. (Directory 87, page 206)

The love of God consists in the absolute union of our will with his own. (Directory 91) page 207)

In the kingdom of charity one prefers to suffer any inconvenience rather than to inconvenience others. (Directory 92, page 207)

Love is the life of the heart, and like the pendulum of a clock which sets in motion all the other parts, love gives to the soul all the movement it has. This love is the only tribute which God requires, for He Who needs nothing, asks for nothing except to be loved. (Directory 94, page 207)

Let us go to God humbly and simply. Let us not seek innumerable ways. Let us take our heart at one bound to give it to him. (Directory 103, Page 209)

Let us love our friends up to the sacrifice of our interests for them, excusing them easily in everything. (Directory 5, page 210)

Let us imitate the little birds of God in their joy, their freedom, in their confidence for the morrow. (Directory 12, page 211)

The Christian love which is formed in our hearts by charity is a love by which we love one another in God, according to God, and for God. (Directory 14, page 211)

It is fidelity in little things which prepares us for fidelity in great ones…Let us open our hearts to Jesus, and he will fill them with his grace and His love. (Directory 16, page 212)

It is something beautiful to have a heart, however small it is, and to be able to make use of it in order to love God. (Directory 19, page 212)

Let us have a big heart that everybody finds room in it. Let us give ourselves graciously to all for the love of Jesus Christ. (Directory 23: page 213)

Gratitude is the most beautiful ornament of the human heart. (Directory 24, page 213)

A small heart thanks with words, a big heart thanks with deeds and actions. (Directory 24, page 213)

Receive unmerited reproaches as charitable warnings, and answer them with humble thanks. (Directory 8, page 214)

We give nothing so freely as our advice. (Directory 12, page 215)

We do not know what God wants to do with us, but let us abandon ourselves unreservedly to Him; let our heart be ready for everything. (Directory 14, page 215)

Let us try to acquire a countenance always serene and cordial, which renders us accessible to all, and especially to the unhappy. The expression of kindness opens to hope the hearts of those who suffer. (Directory 1, page 216)

Let us hide our own pains in our own heart, in order to smile on others. (Directory 1, page 216)

Let us always be kind and devoted, one to the other. (Directory 2, page 216)

Let us be patient, anticipating one another’s wishes, always ready to render a service to others, and full of loving concern, one for the other. (Directory 2, page 216)

Suzanne Aubert was touched to the core by the suffering of those who were sick, poor or disabled. She wrote: “The expression of kindness opens to hope the hearts of those who suffer. Let your soul be in your eyes when you are listening to any tale of sorrow.” (Directory 1-5, page 216)

Let your soul be in your eyes when you are listening to any tale of sorrow. (Directory 5, page 217)’

Be easy of access; receive others amiably, and have your heart ready to devote itself. (Directory 6, page 217)

Let our kindness take a thousand forms; let it be called charity or benignity, patience or longanimity, humility, mildness, or forgiveness. (Directory 10, page 217)

Let us watch for the opportunity of being useful or of rendering a service. (Directory 11, page 218)

Suzanne Aubert shows us the life of God’s Spirit in action. “Let us have a balm for every suffering, consolation for every pain, a smile for every tear, forgiveness for every failing, sweetness for every bitterness of heart.” (Directory 15, page 218)

We will draw (people) to Christ if we always set them an example of affability and cheerfulness.” (Directory 16, page 218)

Graciousness is to the body what common sense is to the mind. (Directory 18, page 219)

“Give and forgive” ought to be the motto of a real Christian. (Directory 27, page 219)

Love your brethren, and the Lord will love you for ever. (Directory 28, page 220)

Never unite to your good deeds, hard and bitter words. (Directory 34, page 220)

Kindness conciliates the hearts of all and converts them to the Lord. (Directory 36, page 220)

Let us cultivate a great affability, cordiality, and serenity towards all those who come to us, in such a way that we are for them a consolation. (Directory 38, page 220)

Cordiality springs from the heart, and respect takes its source in the understanding. These two virtues ought always to be combined. (Directory 42, page 221)

Suzanne Aubert wrote wisely. ”To forgive an injury which we have received is to heal ourselves the wound of our hurt.” (Directory 49, page 222)

We are called to live as people made in God’s image. Suzanne Aubert wrote “We bow to material temples and images; why should we not salute one another reciprocally – we who are the living temples of the Holy Spirit?” (Directory 50’ page 222)

Kindness in our mutual relations is the chief charm of life. (Directory 54, page 222)

A kind heart is the joy of everyone who comes in contact with it. (Directory 60, page 223)

Let us be gracious in our relations with the world. Let us fulfil all our duties with strength and mildness. Let us go straight to the end without minding approval or disapproval. (Directory 13, page 229)

Suzanne Aubert advised us: “Let us pass over the earth, rich only in that faith which sees God in every cross we meet on our way.” (Directory 4, page 230)

Those who suffer the loss of goods, of health, of honour, are much better able to console those who have suffered similar pains and sorrows, than others who do not know what they are. No one can be lost in the exercise of charity. (Directory 33, page 233)

What does it matter if we are but feeble reeds, provided we bend only under the breath of the Holy Spirit? (Directory 51, page 236)

When you feel yourself getting angry, cease to act, or even to speak, or above all, to take any determination before every emotion of that passion is stilled. (Directory 20, page 239)

It is so very human to mind other peoples’ business! Jesus quietly says to us, “Follow me.” Suzanne Aubert wrote “If it happens that we make some false steps, we must not be discouraged, a great number of Saints have made some also. The mercy of God raised them up, and it will raise us likewise, if we have recourse to it.” (Directory 11, page 243)

If people laugh at you, laugh with them and tell them they are quite right. This will contribute greatly to the harmony and the good humour which we ought to cultivate. (Directory 1, page 246)

Contribute to good harmony. (Directory 1, page 246)

We ought to be astonished at one thing only in our old age, and that is that is that it is still possible to astonish us. (Directory 12, page 248)

Quarrels would not last long if the wrong were only on one side. (Directory 16, page 248)

Do not give way to sadness. If our intentions are pure and we seek only God, what have we to fear? (Directory 8, page 250)

Jesus came to reveal God’s identity as the One who is Compassionate Love. He came to introduce us to a forgiving God who delight in us and who yearns that we continue to enjoy happiness, and who will fill our lives with goodness and peace. Suzanne Aubert wrote “The soul which accepts from the Hand of God all that happens to her has found the secret of true happiness; nothing troubles her any longer in this world, and she begins here below the life of heaven by love for the holy Will of God.” Directory 32, page 251)

Let us sing with Suzanne Aubert, “Let the cords of our lyre ever resound to the harmony of happiness which is found in abandoning ourselves to the will of God.” (Directory 36, page 252)

Suzanne Aubert encourages us: “Let us love God in sacrifice and (difficulties). We can do nothing for His glory without suffering.” (Directory 2, page 253)

Let us have a heart big enough for everybody to find room in it. (Directory 3, page 253)

St John of the Cross said “In the evening of our life, we will be judged on kindness.” Suzanne Aubert gave us the example of living for this awesome moment and advises us thus: “Give the whole of your life to God. We will follow Him by any path, no matter what it is.” (Directory 7, page 253)

Let us be carefully to banish from our heart every kind of trouble. Let us watch over all its movements. (Directory 12, page 254)

The good which we have received from anyone, demands that we take no notice of the evil which he does to us. (Directory 13, page 254)

We easily pardon our friends those defects which do not concern ourselves. Directory 18, page 254)

Charity is the groundwork of all our duties. Before all, we must love God. (Directory 4, page 257)

Every good work must be done with the intention of glorifying God. (Directory 14, page 258)

Wherever we may be, and whatever we are doing, as long as we have a heart to love and a will to direct our intention, we can, and we should be apostles. (Directory 2, page 259)

God does not need our skill. He selects whoever He likes to do what he wants. All I have to do is to co-operate. (Directory 20, page 259)

Suzanne Aubert’s care of the suffering poor was supported by all sectors of society. She expressed the compassion of the community and she ended up with a wonderful network of friends who valued her. She wrote “Love transfigures all it touches.” (Directory 20, page 259)

The works of God are done little by little, by beginning and progress; so then, we must act gently, pray much, and work conjointly with our fellow-labourers. (Directory 34, page 261)

We are never alone when we are complying with our duty, because God is with us. (Directory 32, page 261)

Let us have nothing so much as to work for the good of all. (Directory 34, page 261)

Never give advice without putting yourself in the place of the person, whom you advise, and without regard to the circumstances, or without weighing them well. (Directory 2, page 263)

How can we expect others to keep our secrets when we cannot keep them ourselves? (Directory 9, page 264)

Let us seek in God alone the best means to carry on the works of God and let us consider and judge things by the judgement of Jesus Christ.” (Directory 20, page 265)

A sound mind is better at the age of eighteen, than an ill-balanced one at fifty years. (Directory 30, page 266)

The person who waits for old age to correct them- self, is like one who waits to cross a river until it ceased to flow! (Directory 1, page 267)

Life is given to us to seek God; death to find Him; and eternity, to possess Him. (Directory 5, page 267)

It is not enough to be occupied we must work with the intention of pleasing God, and intermingle work and prayer. (Directory 12, page 268)

Suzanne Aubert reminds us that: “The present moment, the now, contains all the love of the good
God, all sanctity, our life and our eternity. (Directory 21, page 270)

Old fools are greater fools than young ones are. (Directory 10, page 271)

When we fall asleep with a good thought, that good thought keeps away evil ones. (Directory 20, page 272)

Suzanne Aubert became adept at shaking the dust from her feet. Late in life she could say, “Let us be indifferent to insults as well as to compliments. Today, people will praise us to the sky, and tomorrow we will not be good enough to throw to the dogs. Today, we will be angels and tomorrow we will not be worth the rope to hang us.” (Directory 1, page 282)

Suzanne Aubert loved Sacred Scripture. Her Directory is full of Scriptural texts in support of her instructions. She wrote: “The obscure and inglorious task of education is the greatest of human tasks”. (Directory 23, page 282) Guiding young people in the ways of God gave her tremendous joy.

Let what the world thinks of us be the least of our concerns. (Directory 49, page 287)

Suzanne Aubert wrote widely on the aspect of faith: “Faith is the light of the mind, the life of the just, the soul of great actions; consolation during life and at the hour of death.” (Directory 1, page 289)

Faith, by showing to us in every one of our unfortunate brethren, another Christ, is the source of our devotedness. (Directory 2, page 289)

Suzanne Aubert was in constant communication with God. She tells us that the more often we fall, the more severely we are hurt, the more we need God, therefore, the quicker we ought to run to Him, To whom shall we go, if not to Him? The simplicity of our faith touches the heart of God and obtains prodigies.” (Directory 7: Page 290)

Let us always be in readiness for everything to please God. (Directory 4, page 209)

It was through Suzanne Aubert’s faith that enabled others to experience the God of compassion. She wrote “Faith is the virtue which sets in motion all the others.” (Directory 6, page 290)

We must never say what is not true, and always say only what is true. (Directory 9, page 290)

Suzanne Aubert was clear on matters of faith: “Let us believe in the mysteries which we do not understand. Where would be the merit of faith in believing things evident and demonstrated?” (Directory 21, page 291)

Suzanne Aubert in her writings expresses her faith in Jesus’ presence among us. “to believe in Jesus Christ is to consider him as the only one capable of helping us to realise our destiny; it is to believe that he has come on earth not only to save us but also to bring us the life-giving lessons of his example.” (Directory 30, page 293)

Virtue has nothing to do with etiquette; it desires only to please God. (Directory 57, Page 297)

Suzanne Aubert embraced every type of human suffering to her heart. She cared for them all. She advises us, “Let us not seek for publicity, and let us be known only by the good which we are called on to do.” (Directory 8, page 300)

It is love that gives value to everything. (Directory 13, page 301)

My God, I thank You to-day for having humbled me yesterday. The young person is beautiful, but the old person is great. (Directory 57, page 308)

We often inconvenience others when we think that we could never inconvenience them. (Directory 2, page 308)

We think that nobody is endowed with common-sense but those who are of the same opinion as ourselves. (Directory 5, page 308)

We ought not to judge of a person by their great qualities, but by the good use they make of them. (Directory 8, page 308)

So many [people], so many opinions. (Directory 16, page 309)

Great people are like meteors, which shine to enlighten the earth. (Directory 23, page 309)

Wit in conversation consists less in showing that we possess much of it, than in promoting the wit of others. Those who are pleased with your conversation are certainly pleased with yourself. (Directory 25, page 309)

He who speaks sows he who listens reaps. To speak is to spend, to listen is to acquire. Do not answer before having listened, and never interrupt anyone in the middle of his speech. (Directory 26, page 309)

Good listeners are like good managers, they make the best of everything. (Directory 27, page 310)

Conversation is the physiognomy of the intellect. (Directory 28, page 310)

The more imagination we have, the more brilliant is our conversation. The reason of this is that imagination takes us out of ourselves to carry us beyond our individuality. We cannot imagine how much wit is required never to be ridiculous. (Directory 30, page 310)

It is impossible (for people) to live only for (themselves). We are in society, we have then relations among ourselves to which we cannot be indifferent, for they accomplish either good or evil. The duties of our state define our obligations. We are bound, more or less strictly, to all (people). We must love Jesus Christ hidden in the soul of every one of them.” (Directory 31, page 310)

Let us always try to bring back a smile to the lips of those in need. (Directory 37, page 311)

In everything, let us know only the straight way, and let nothing make us deviate from it. (Directory 1, page 312)

All our proceedings must be characterised by the principle of justice. (Directory 2, page 312)

Everybody complains of his memory and nobody of his judgment. (Directory 3, page 312)

When we live in a glass house, we should not throw stones at others. (Directory 9, page 313)

There is only one right way of looking at what life brings under our eyes; it is the way in which God looks at the world. Let us try to look at it after the manner of God. (Directory 12, page 313)

Suzanne Aubert believed deeply in God’s providence when it came to matters of finance and politics. Her life and mission was a life-long response to discerning God’s Will for her and her followers. She wrote that the holy person is one ‘who practices justice in giving what he owes to God, to his neighbour, and to oneself’. (Directory 14, page 313)

We should be very careful of our language when we speak of our religion before people who do not think as we do. (Directory 42, page 317)

We must neither say nor take pleasure in listening to what we would not like to have said of ourselves. (Directory 15, page 320)

Let us return to everyone faithfully what is due to him. (Directory 8, page 312)

Suzanne Aubert’s compassion for Te Rau Kereopa (imprisoned for his part in the killing of Rev Carl Volkner in 1872) enabled her to spend the night in prayer with him before he was hanged. She then arranged a Catholic burial for him. Suzanne Aubert’s acceptance of the less fortunate tells us, “There is only one right way of looking at what life brings under our eyes, it is the way in which God looks at the world. Let us try to look at others after the manner of God.” (Directory 13, page 313)

The just person is he who practices justice in giving what he owes to God, to his neighbour, and to himself. (Directory 14, page 313)

In our conversations, we must be cheerful without dissipation, reserved in our words, forgetful of self. (Directory 5, page 314)

Never judge by words but by facts, after you have seriously examined them. (Directory 7, page 314)

We must neither say nor take pleasure in listening to what we would not like to have said of ourselves. (Directory 47, page 318)

Suzanne Aubert’s experience inspired her to advise us thus, “When we are persecuted, let us arm ourselves with prayer and true devotion of heart. Let us put our confidence in God alone and let us remain calm. The heavenly help will come when everything seems lost.” (Directory 18, page 320)

If we hear So-and-so is against us, let us not cease to love her, to respect her, and to serve her, and beg of God the grace to do it. (Directory 14, page 320)

In everything whether temporal or spiritual, let us do our part and let God do His, and let us remain in peace. (Directory 15, page 320)

Let us put our confidence in God alone, and let us remain calm. (Directory 18, page 320)

There are on earth many people who make much noise, and others who pass unknown. (Directory 1, page 321)

Suzanne Aubert died on the 1st October 1926. The news of her death made headlines. She was one of the greatest women in public effort and loving-sacrifice New Zealand has known. Suzanne Aubert wrote “Can we hope to be near God at the time of death, if, during life, we have kept at a distance from Him?” (Directory 6, page 322)

Suzanne Aubert lived very comfortably with her own mortality and vulnerability. She wisely stated: “Perfect abandonment of our-selves for the future requires great courage. Let us deliver into the Hands of Our Dear Lord, all our care for the future, as well as all anxiety about the past.” (Directory 8, page 322)

To will what God wills is the only science which gives us rest. (Directory 2, page 329)

Let us do all that we have to do with clam and peace. To act otherwise would be to doubt the goodness of God! (Directory 6, page 329)

Patience is one of the mist solid foundations of sanctity. (Directory 10, page 330)

Suzanne Auber understood what it was to have patience with regard to her prayers during the establishment of the Sisters of Compassion. She writes: “The patience of a Sister of Compassion ought never to be wearied or astonished at anything, not even at the providential slowness with which God sometimes answers our prayers. Directory 24, page 331)

Let us try always to possess ourselves to such an extent that nothing surprises us. (Directory 23, page 331)

Suzanne Aubert understood what it was to have patience with regard to her prayers during the establishment of our Congregation. She writes: “(Our) patience ought never to be wearied or astonished at anything, not even at the providential slowness with which God sometimes answers our prayer…God asks us for perseverance not with regard to Himself but to make us understand better the value of what we ask.” (Directory 24, page 331)

Those who suffer the loss of goods, of health, of honour, are much better able to console those who have suffered similar pains and sorrows, that others who do not know what they are. No one can be lost in the exercise of charity.” (Directory 33, page 233)

Even if we are suffering, especially the trials of old age, we shouldn’t make those around us suffer. Suzanne urges us to ‘suffer with calmness, patience and resignation.’ (Directory 37, page 333)

We have nothing to fear from ourselves when we lean only on God. (Directory 38, page 334)

Silence is the most beautiful voice in the world. (Directory 42, page 334)

God will never reject us on account of our natural defects; they are involuntary, and it does not depend on us to be rid of them. Only, we have to humble ourselves before God, and implore from His Goodness the grace not to offend Him by following our inclinations. (Directory 1, page 335)

We can do absolutely no good by ourselves, but with God we can do all. (Directory 3, page 335)

Let us not be so much taken up with our miseries, but let us go to God with more confidence and love. (Directory 4, page 336)

We must not be troubled by faults which are not committed deliberately; an act of love obtains the forgiveness of them. (Directory 5, page 336)

God is not like people to treasure resentment. (Directory 5, page 336)

Old fools are worse than the young ones. (Directory 20, page 337)

We must not only give to the poor, but we must reverence the aged. (Directory 14, page 341)

Suzanne Aubert was always aware of God upholding her in life. She wrote: “In our poverty, let us always count upon God, who will never let us want for necessaries; it would be to sin against (God’s) goodness to doubt it. Let us not wish for plenty, but for what is indispensable.” (Directory 32, page 343)

Let us accept everything from God. (Directory 33, page 343)

Let us never forget that salvation is in charity. (Directory 33, page 343)

Let us always be ready to share with the poor the little that is left to us. (Directory 3, page 344)

Let us not lose any opportunity of practising acts of charity. Let us be good to everybody, ingenious in excusing small faults, and skilful in interpreting proceedings which might more or less be open to criticism. (Directory 8, page 344)

With our neighbour, let us be full of little attentions, forbearing, and showing deference without flattery. (Directory 9, page 344)

Let all your preferences be for the unhappy and the most abandoned, to soothe their spiritual and corporal miseries. (Directory 11, page 345)

Let us apply ourselves courageously to works of mercy. (Directory 17, Page 346)

The first thoughts of the day should be reserved for God, and afterwards, let us do all for God in the service of His suffering and abandoned members. (Directory 1A, Page 346)

Let us commit ourselves entirely into the hands of God, Who knows better than we what is best for us. (Directory 2, page 346)

Let us attribute nothing to ourselves. Let us refer all to God. (Directory 4, page 347)

If we find nothing to say to God…let us show Him our heart, let him see in it only a true desire to be His, to do what He wills; that will go straight to his heart, better than the most beautiful speech. (Directory 5, page 347)

O my God, when I wake up, let my soul take its flight to you, let my heart offer its first desires! God ends a day well who has begun it holily. (Directory 6, page 347)

Suzanne Aubert defined prayer as ‘a disposition of the heart to will only what God wills’ and it enables us to obey God in everything. Meditation and contemplation will ‘unveil for us the secrets of eternity,’ (Directory 8,12, page 347)

True devotion does not consist in sentimental feelings, or in exterior practices, but in the disposition of the heart to will only what God wills, and to refuse nothing to Him. (Directory 12, page 348)

Let us speak to God about our miseries, all our needs, all our pains. We cannot speak to Him too freely, nor with too much confidence. Let us tell Him all that we have in our heart, our joys, our desires, our repugnance’s, our weaknesses, our sins. We shall never exhaust the subject matter.
(Directory 55, page 353)

Let us make use of everything to keep ourselves in the Presence of God, and never let us think of Him without paying Him some homage, especially the great homage of love. (Directory 56, page 353)

Prayer is the certain means of salvation. Let us pray with humility, like the Publican; with confidence, like the Centurion; with perseverance, like the Woman of Canaan; with ardent desire, like the Blind Man of Jericho. (Directory 57, page 354)

Suzanne Aubert’s spirituality was very much based on God’s presence in her life, and the grace of the ‘present moment’ enabled her to do great things for God. When we pray, let us look at Our Lord, and let us remain in His Presence. (Directory 58, page 354)

We cannot do anything without prayer, and we can do everything with it, because God has promised everything to it. (Directory 60, page 354)

God hears us wherever we are, whether we are on the land or on the sea, without our moving our lips. We can pray to Him in our heart without uttering a word. (Directory 62, page 354)

Prayer begins to wither as soon as the water of confidence no longer irrigates its roots. (Directory 63, page 354)

Let us make our sanctity consist in the perfection of our ordinary actions. (Directory 2, page 355)

Let us not be discouraged by our want of ability, we shall not have to give an account of that to God. God does not need our ability in his works. But let us strive to acquire the virtues and the spirit of our state. (Directory 6, page 356)

A fervent prayer keeps away sleep and penetrates heaven. (Directory 9, page 356)

When we cannot reflect much, let us do what we can, and our heart will do the rest. (Directory 7, page 347)

“I do not know how to pray, O my God! Let my actions be a continual prayer and speak to You of my love.” Life is short; I will go to heaven by the most direct way. (Directory 5, page 401)

When we seek only God, we cannot be deceived. (Directory 6, page 401)

Suzanne Aubert celebrated her life by living to the full. “Let the end of our desires and all our actions be to do something for God, because actions performed with that intention are acts of divine love.” (Directory 13, page 401)

We often think that we cannot do a certain thing, but it is because we do not want to do it. Do your share, and God will do His, and everything will go well. Get out of yourself to answer to the designs of God on you. (Directory 7, page 401)

We would often be very ashamed of our most beautiful actions if others could see all the motives which prompt us to do them. (Directory 8, page 401)

Suzanne Aubert in quoting St. Augustine says, “we can say nothing shorter, hear nothing more joyous, understand nothing shorter, hear nothing more joyous, understand nothing greater, accomplish nothing more fruitful, than by saying ‘Thanks be to God’. She says, ‘our thanksgiving ought to be perpetual.’ ” (Directory 50, page 416, 35, page 411)

To love God above all things, to love all people as oneself, to give one’s heart and soul, one’s mind and strength in order to make people better and happier, that is life, that is the law, that is happiness, justice and truth. Written in one of Suzanne Aubert’s notebooks.

Be happy in your dear family and may you with them enjoy every blessings. Aubert (on behalf of pupils of Nazareth Institution) to Lady Bowen, 2 May 1898, ACDA POM 23-4, Page 14.

God settles things in his own time. Aubert to Yardin, 23 Nov. 1869, Sisters of Compassion Archives

I am determined, with God’s help, to die in harness rather than give up. Aubert to Poupinel, 20 Dec. 1869, Sisters of Compassion Archives

If it is the work of God, He will know how to look after it. Aubert to Poupinel, 20 Dec. 1869, Sisters of Compassion Archives

Prayer can bring results where doctors’ skills fail. Aubert to Outhwaite, 30 July 1872, Sisters of Compassion Archives. 54A.

Half the life of our souls and hearts is made up of hope. Aubert to Outhwaite, 15 April 1873, Sisters
of Compassion Archives 54A.

In the eyes of God there’s no Nationality. Aubert to Outhwaite, 16 July 1873, Sisters of Compassion Archives 54A.

“I do not know how to pray, O My God! Let my actions be a continual prayer and speak to You of my love.” Life is short; I will go to heaven by the most direct way. (Directory 6, page 401)

When we seek only God, we cannot be deceived. (Directory 6, Page 401)

We often think that we cannot do a certain thing, but it is because we do not want to do it. Do your share, and God will do His, and everything will go well. Get out of yourself to answer to the designs of God on you. (Directory 7 page 401)

Let the end of our desires and of all our actions be to do something for God, because actions performed with that intention, are acts of divine love, which make us advance on the road to heaven. (Directory 13, page 401)

Let us never lose courage amid the fatigues and dangers of the journey of life. (Directory 36, page 389)

Let us believe in the goodness and in the love of our Lord, even though we find no word to tell Him of it. (Directory 44, page 391)

Let us pray to Mary, the Mother of God, she is solely merciful and always compassionate. (Directory 8, page 394)

Suzanne Aubert had a life-long devotion to and dependence on St. Joseph. We would not be without this wonderful giant of a saint! She wrote “Let us pray to St Joseph with confidence.” (Directory 9, page 394)

Let us do all in Jesus and Mary, with Jesus and Mary, for Jesus and Mary. (Directory 15, page 395)

Mary loves us because she loves God, and because the love of God is inseparable bound to the love of all. She loves us especially because we are her children. (Directory 18, page 396)

If we are in need of something, let us rejoice; but let us fear sincerely to have all that we want, for to want for nothing is not to be truly poor. (Directory 4, page 398)

Let us learn together what some may know and others are ignorant of, but before all, let peace and union reign amongst us. (Directory 5, page 398)

We must never concede anything to laziness. (Directory 1, page 399)

Let us not think of “What will people say?” Let us do good with a pure intention, and let us leave the success to God, the glory of it must return to Him. (Directory 3, Page 399)

An iron will triumphs sooner or later over every difficulty. It marches straight to the greatest perfection when it is well directed. (Directory 1, page 400)

We are not called to do all the good that is possible, but only what we can do. (Directory 44. page 379)

There are days when we can feel a bit overwhelmed with whatever our responsibilities are. It is well to remember that Jesus has chosen the gifts we each have. Jesus has allotted complimentary gifts to others. It is together, that we build up the body of Christ. Suzanne Aubert wrote, “We must do all that depends on us to advance the glory of God, and after that, remain in peace. (Directory 44, Page 379)

In the interpretation of a law, or precept, we must not attach ourselves to the literal sense, but seek to grasp the reasonable thought, the real intention under the expression of it. (Directory 49, page 381)

Let us be always kind, equable, patient, and accessible to everyone. (Directory 59, page 382)

Let us throw ourselves into the arms of providence. (Directory 65, Page 384)

Let our piety be simple, strong, confident, and free from the narrowness of thought and sentiment, in things of faith and of religion. Do not confine it in the case of an umbrella! Unfold it by charity, so that it produces a hundredfold for Heaven. (Directory 66, page 384)

Let us love the great devotions of the Church, and the liturgical prayers, especially the Holy Mass.” (Directory 66, page 384)

Let us go to God with love and confidence. (Directory 5, Page 386)

Time and patience are the greatest masters of perfection. (Directory 8, Page 386)

A person who communicates well, does everything well. (Directory 18, page 387)

Suzanne Aubert echoes St Paul’s message that every Eucharist recalls Christ’s death. “Let us go to God with the full consciousness of our weakness, and the need of renewing our strength. It is not only to live and to suffer that we have need of God in the Eucharist, we have need of Him especially to die.” (Directory 15 & 22, page 387-8)

Suzanne Aubert had a tender loving devotion to Mary and she inculcated this in her followers. “Our Divine Saviour, who is our whole life and our hope, is the Fruit of Mary, and whoever wishes to have the fruit must go to the tree; so let us cling to Mary in order never to lose Jesus.” (Directory 3, page 393)

Mary smiles on those who implore her, and her compassion never fails those who suffer, for her heart has known every affliction and every sorrow. She loves us because she loves God and the love of God is inseparably bound to the love of (Humanity). (Directory 16, page 395-396)

We must be all for God, and God must be all for us. (Directory 6, page 401)

Sanctity consists in loving God with all our heart, and in doing everything for that love. (Directory 53, page 363)

Let us be contented in all the situations in which God places us, whether agreeable or hard, every one of them has its usefulness. (Directory 56, Page 364)

Avoid airs of authority, act with simplicity in a spirit of humility and of respect. (Directory 1, page 365)

Let us have nothing extraordinary in our conduct, no exaggerations in our words, never any precipitation or prejudices in our judgments. Let us act under the Eyes of God. (Directory 14, page 367)

Trust in God let Him be you light and strength. (Directory 31, page 370)

Have a heart like an artichoke, and such a big one that everybody can have a leaf of it. (Directory 39, page 372)

Become a stopgap to fill any place and to help and encourage others. (Directory 40, page 372)

Nobody must tarnish, even lightly, the reputation of others. (Directory 42, page 371)

The good that one can do in private life is very little when one compares it with what can be done in co-operating in works of the future. (Directory 1, page 373)

God will not ask us precisely if we have done much, but if we have done well, for Him, what we have done. (Directory 3, page 373)

God takes care of everyone as if they were His only creature. (Directory 6, page 373)

Let us often say to God: “Grant us the grace of the moment, and the grace to always correspond with it.” (Directory 10, page 375)

Let us always work with patience, courage, and generosity, and, above all, with patience, courage, and generosity, and, above all, with confidence and love. (Directory 30, page 378)

Let us be persuaded that it is the work of God which we have the honour to do, but at the same time let us do all in our power, as if success depended on us. (Directory 35, page 378)

Next to grace, there is no greater benefit to the soul than peace, for patience overcomes all things. (Directory 44, page 379)

A person who communicates well, does everything well. (Directory 18, page 387)
Let the breadth and thoroughness of our spirit of charity be unlimited. (Directory 39, page 379)

“I do not know how to pray, O my God! Let my actions be a continual prayer and speak to You of my love.” Life is short; I will go to heaven by the most direct way. (Directory 5, page 401)

When we seek only God, we cannot be deceived. (Directory 6, page 401)

Suzanne Aubert celebrated her life by living to the full. “Let the end of our desires and all our actions be to do something for God, because actions performed with that intention are acts of divine love.” (Directory 13, page 401)

We often think that we cannot do a certain thing, but it is because we do not want to do it. Do your share, and God will do His, and everything will go well. Get out of yourself to answer to the designs of God on you. (Directory 7, page 401)

We would often be very ashamed of our most beautiful actions if others could see all the motives which prompt us to do them. (Directory 8, page 401)

Suzanne Aubert in quoting St. Augustine says, “we can say nothing shorter, hear nothing more joyous, understand nothing shorter, hear nothing more joyous, understand nothing greater, accomplish nothing more fruitful, than by saying ‘Thanks be to God’. She says, ‘our thanksgiving ought to be perpetual.’ ” (Directory 50, page 416, 35, page 411)

To love God above all things, to love all people as oneself, to give one’s heart and soul, one’s mind and strength in order to make people better and happier, that is life, that is the law, that is happiness, justice and truth. Written in one of Suzanne Aubert’s notebooks.

Be happy in your dear family and may you with them enjoy every blessings. Aubert (on behalf of pupils of Nazareth Institution) to Lady Bowen, 2 May 1898, ACDA POM 23-4, Page 14.

God settles things in his own time. Aubert to Yardin, 23 Nov. 1869, Sisters of Compassion Archives

I am determined, with God’s help, to die in harness rather than give up. Aubert to Poupinel, 20 Dec. 1869, Sisters of Compassion Archives

If it is the work of God, He will know how to look after it. Aubert to Poupinel, 20 Dec. 1869, Sisters of Compassion Archives

Prayer can bring results where doctors’ skills fail. Aubert to Outhwaite, 30 July 1872, Sisters of Compassion Archives. 54A.

Half the life of our souls and hearts is made up of hope. Aubert to Outhwaite, 15 April 1873, Sisters
of Compassion Archives 54A.

In the eyes of God there’s no Nationality. Aubert to Outhwaite, 16 July 1873, Sisters of Compassion Archives 54A.

May the Holy Will of God be done and blessed be His ways. Aubert to Outhwaite, 11 Sept. 1874, Sisters of Compassion Archives 54A.

Are not God’s ways mercifully wonderful!! Aubert to Bridget, 9 July 1918, Sisters of Compassion Archives.

If we never look for gratitude we shall never be deceived. (Message written by Suzanne Aubert included in a letter written by Sister Baptista to Sister Bridget, 11 August 1907. Sisters of Compassion Archives 23C/87.

Do not loose courage, pray hard and God will arrange everything. Aubert to Sister Bridget, undated [c. November 1903}. Sisters of Compassion Archives 23C.

Caution must be taken not to write anything that may lead any one to surmise things that ought to be buried in oblivion for ever. Aubert to Sr. Carmel, undated [1904], Sisters of Compassion Archives 23A.

Bad tongues ought to be let wag like dog’s tails without taking notice of them. Aubert to Sr. Carmel, 9 July 1905, Sisters of Compassion Archives 23A.

Do all for God’s sake alone. Aubert to Sr. Bridget, undated [late 1905], Sisters of Compassion Archives 23C.

God knows best. We must not murmur. Suzanne Aubert 1903

Suzanne Aubert wrote to her novices from Rome. “We can never love and honour Mary too much, since we can never love and honour her as much as Jesus did. We can never serve her too well since she is the Mother of Jesus and our Mother.”

When Suzanne Aubert sailed for Rome in 1913, she wrote to the Sisters: “I abandon myself unreservedly to Divine Providence for life or death: success or failure, praying only for the fulfilment of God’s holy design, whatever that might be.”

Seek God alone and live in charity, faith and self- sacrifice. Aubert to Sisters, 2 August 1913, Sisters of Compassion Archives 25A/16.

To know the plain honest truth: Nothing is worse than uncertainty. Aubert to Isa Outhwaite, [27 October 1913], Sisters of Compassion Archives 15/2.

A joyful start to the new day, and may the day itself be happy, and many more that follow. Aubert to Isa Outhwaite, [27 October 1913], Sisters of Compassion Archives 15/2.

Trust all the more in God. Aubert to Sr. Angela, 9 January 1914, Sisters of Compassion Archives 22/2.

When I have done all I could, I will have done all I ought, and God will please Himself. Welcome and blessed be His Holy Will. Aubert to Sr. Angela, 9 January 1914, Sisters of Compassion Archives 22/2.

We cannot be in better hands than God’s own ones. Aubert to Sr. Carmel, 23 February. (Annotated: 1914), Sisters of Compassion Archives 23A/41.

Live in Hope. Aubert to Sr. Angela, 20 March 1914, Sisters of Compassion Archives 22/4

Love to cultivate the virtues of Our Blessed Mother, and may they creep in, and around your hearts. Aubert to Sr. Chanel, 20 March 1914, Sisters of Compassion Archives 21C/2.

These are the things which I recommend you to stick to, viz. to God, to prayer, to trust in God. Aubert to Sr. Chanel, 20 March 1914, Sisters of Compassion Archives 21C/2.

A single lighted candle lights another one, and so on, thousands of candles are lighted. Aubert to Sr. Claver, 9 August 1914, Sisters of Compassion Archives 24B/4.

A heart burning with the fire of true charity lights it in other hearts, for it is contagious. Aubert to Sr. Claver, 9 August 1914, Sisters of Compassion Archives 24B/4.

Do all you can and trust firmly in God Who will do the rest Himself in His own ways, and you will marvel at the results. Aubert to Sr. Claver, 9 August 1914, Sisters of Compassion Archives 24B/4.

Courage, loose heart by no means: Let us pray hard for one another collectively and individually.
Aubert to Sr. Claver, 9 August 1914, Sisters of Compassion Archives.

We can foresee nothing. God alone knows where we are going to. Aubert to Isa Outhwaite, 22 February 1915, Sisters of Compassion Archives 15/14.

May St Joseph obtain for you every blessing and grace. Aubert to Sr. Claver, 2 March 1915, Sisters of Compassion Archives 24B/7.

Work is a great blessing. I appreciate it more than ever. Aubert to Isa Outhwaite, 4 April 1915, Sisters of Compassion archives 15/15.

Trust in God, seek Him alone. Aubert to Sr. Angela, 12 July 1915, Sisters of Compassion Archives 22/17.

The love of God and of His Holy Will is the only real comfort we have in this life; it is even the beginning of heaven, for what is heaven, [if not] the love and the possession of God. Aubert to Sr. Dolores, 16 June 1916, Sisters of Compassion Archives 25C/2.

Wish with all your heart that the Holy Will of God is done in us as it is in heaven and all will be well. Aubert to Sisters, 6 November 1916, Sisters of Compassion Archives 24B/25.

You need much tact and prudence, but trust in Heaven, it will help you, have courage. Aubert to Sr. Claver, 23 November 1917, Sisters of Compassion Archives 24C/11.

What are the designs of God? For nothing happens without His permission. Aubert to Pearl Dalziell, 11 September 1917, Sisters of Compassion Archives Ms Copybook 14B.

Let us return fervent thanks to God for His Mercy. Aubert to Sr. Claver, 22 November 1918, Sisters of Compassion Archives 24D/10.

Be of good cheer in serving God faithfully. Aubert to Sr. Claver, 22 November 1918, Sisters of Compassion Archives 24D/10.

Courage all for God. Auber to Sr. Claver, May 1919, Sisters of Compassion Archives 24D/12.

Have courage; relying on God we can face everything. Aubert to Sr. Claver, 28 September 1919, Sisters of Compassion Archives 24D/17

Welcome the Holy Will of God! Aubert to Sr. Louise, 26 August 1920, Sisters of Compassion Archives 6N

Offer all your pains to God and he will reward them all. Aubert to Kenny, 19 February, 19 February 1918, Sisters of Compassion Archives Ms Copybook 11.

Say a little prayer to St Joseph every day, he will protect you. Aubert to Kenny, 19 February 1918, Sisters of Compassion Archives Ms Copybook 11.

Never let your right hand know what you left hand is doing. Sister Angela to Suzanne Aubert, January 1916, Sisters of Compassion Archives Ms Copybook 14 C2, p.27.

It is wonderful what a temporary absence can sometimes achieve. Aubert to Pearl Dalziell, 11 January 1913, Sisters of Compassion Archives 69/11c.

Have courage, look forward for happier days. Aubert to Pearl Dalziell, 11 January 1913, Sisters of Compassion Archives 69/11c.

Cultivate that sweet flower of hope the roots of which being in Heaven, always tend to raise us up, reminding us that all our troubles are only transitory, and are made worst or lighter according to the degree of importance and attention we attach to them. Aubert to Pearl Dalziell, 11 January 1913, Sisters of Compassion Archives 69/11c.

When you feel the prickling of the thorns remember that roses grow also on the same bush. Aubert to Pearl Dalziell, 11 January 1913, Sisters of Compassion Archives 69/11c.

Be wise and avail of the experience of the past. Aubert to Maisie O’Connor, 16 October 1903, Sisters of Compassion Archives 65A

My heart has never left the Māori. Aubert to Sr. Baptista, 27 October 1922, Sisters of Compassion Archives 5.

Do all for God and for God only. Aubert to Sr. Bertha, 3 April 1923, Sisters of Compassion Archives 25.

Often ask your Guardian Angel to assist you when you are studying. He can help you such a lot if you only ask him, and as he is always by your side you do not need to wait for him, He will be but pleased to help you. Aubert to Sr. Veronica, 6 November 1923, Sisters of Compassion Archives 25G/20.

A little from the poor of good will is far more valuable than rich presents from those who have plenty and often give more from show than from the heart. Aubert to Sr. Veronica, 6 November 1923, Sisters of Compassion Archives 25G/20.

Let us all be happy in conforming ourselves to God’s Holy Will, and let us all pray earnestly one for the other. Aubert to Sr. Veronica, 6 November 1923, Sisters of Compassion Archives 25G/20.

I send you a bundle of ‘arohas’ for distribution. Aubert to Sr. Veronica, 6 November 1923, Sisters of Compassion Archives 25G/34.

The legacy Suzanne Aubert left the Sisters of Compassion is a life lived in trust and faith in a God who answers us-always. This God leads us to the poor: be it across the equator or right on our own doorstep. Metaphorically speaking, Suzanne took a giant leap of faith when she came to Oceania, New Zealand. The Suva Community, The Legacy of Suzanne Aubert, in Sacred Seasons with Suzanne Aubert, vol 2, No 4.

Suzanne Aubert speaks to each one of us about the importance of having a balance in our lives. In the midst of mass media with so much happening at such a pace we need to take time to nourish ourselves both bodily and spiritually in order to look beyond ourselves. In this way the compassion of God becomes alive in a sometimes complicated life where only a few things are important. The Legacy of Suzanne Aubert, in Sacred Seasons with Suzanne Aubert, vol 2, No 4.

Suzanne Aubert understood the anxiety of those in leadership. To one of her own leaders she wrote: “Do not be afraid (of the responsibility laid on your shoulders), as long as you seek only the good pleasure of God in all you do, for God who knows well that of yourself you can do no good, will do Himself His work through your instrumentality, provided you let Him do it freely by your absolute surrender to His Will and your complete disregard of self.” (Aubert to Sr. Alphonsus, 9

Archbishop Redwood blessed St Joseph’s Church on the 25th December 1885 and Suzanne Aubert in sending an account of the procedures to Rome records how paramount Chief Poutini described the achievement of the community. “The Church you find here has cost many a sacrifice, it now stands as a witness to faith and a pledge of perseverance. Look at what has been done and rejoice in it.” (‘Letters of the Go’, page 157)

When Suzanne Aubert went to Rome to plead for the welfare of the babies in her care, she visited the Shrine of Our Lady of Good Counsel. In her own words, speaking in the third person, she describes her experience when she prayed before the little picture: ‘Holy Mother, if you do not give me my babies, I will take yours.’ She had hardly uttered these words when she jumped back, terrified at seeing the faces on the picture taking an appearance of life. The eyes of the Infant were riveted on her. Later she heard that if she had felt afraid at the change, it was a sure sign that it had really taken place, and that her petition had been granted. (Extract, May 1914)

In the parable of the Good Samaritan Jesus shows us who our neighbour is. Our caring, kindness and compassion is for anyone in need, regardless of ethnicity or creed. Suzanne Aubert’s policy of care was for those of ‘all creeds and none’. This tradition continues today in the mission of the Sisters of Compassion.

Suzanne Aubert came to New Zealand to be a missionary among the people of this land-with a special care for the Māori. In 1870 when asked by Bishop Croke to abandon this call and return to her homeland, due to Auckland’s financial problems, she declined saying ‘My Lord, I came here for the Māori; I will die in the midst of them. Nobody can prevent me from doing that…’ (Sr. Angela, ‘Reminiscences’, vol. 2, page 294). This decision eventually led to the founding of New Zealand’s own congregation of Sisters.

Church of Hato Hohepa