A Journey of Faith and Discovery: Sister Judith’s Story

July 24, 2024

We were excited to hear from one of our alumni, Sister Judith Blackburne, recently about her extraordinary journey of faith and personal growth. Sister Judith attended our school from 1953 to 1963, and her time here had a profound impact on her life. In this story, we share her extraordinary journey of faith and personal growth, from overcoming challenges to finding her calling.

In Sister Judith’s words

From the moment I first laid eyes on Santa Maria College, I knew it was where I belonged. I’d had a difficult start to school due to bullying, but after moving from Busselton to East Fremantle, Santa Maria was a fresh beginning. Even though I wasn’t Catholic, and my parents had their reservations, I begged them to let me attend. I can only attribute this decision to the guiding hand of God. It was here that I found lifelong friends and a community that nurtured my growth.

My interests were varied, but I had a particular passion for Biology and Geology. I hated Math and struggled with spelling. A nun’s keen observation of my hearing loss led to a life-changing diagnosis and treatment. My love for sports, especially swimming and tennis, flourished at Santa Maria. Outside of school, I crewed on my father’s yacht to Rottnest, fished, snorkelled, and swam—activities far more exciting than any homework!

The turning point in my life came at the age of 13, during a Mass at Santa Maria. Despite my initial disinterest in religion and my parents’ discouragement, I experienced a profound moment of belief during the Consecration of the Eucharist. This awakening to the real presence of Jesus in the Sacred Host sparked a deep desire to receive Him, a longing that only grew stronger with time.

Despite being enrolled to receive sacraments in the Anglican Church to honour a dying godparent’s wish, my heart was set on Catholicism. Sister Paschal was the first person I spoke to about my desire to become a Catholic. She became a steadfast supporter of my journey towards the Catholic faith, and at 21, I was finally able to embrace this calling, despite my parents’ initial resistance.

After graduating from Santa Maria in 1963, I travelled to England. My parents had hoped that distancing me from my Catholic friends might quell my desire to convert. Instead, I found fulfilment working at an educational museum, studying botany and zoology, and making new friends. Yet, my heart remained in Perth, and I returned home, determined to pursue a career in a caring profession. Nursing seemed the obvious choice.

Training at Princess Margaret Hospital brought me into contact with fellow Santa Maria graduates and allowed for unforgettable experiences, such as a Pacific cruise and a visit to the British Navy in Singapore. After living in Sydney for a time, I eventually found my way to Ireland to study midwifery. Once qualified, I returned to Perth, where I also found romance. I was enjoying life to the full, but I was still grappling with a call to religious life. So, I broke up with my boyfriend and decided once again to leave Perth and head back to Ireland.

In Ireland, amidst my professional growth, my inner turmoil ended when I saw an advert for the Poor Clare Monastery in Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim. Visiting the monastery filled me with an overwhelming sense of peace and belonging. After a year of discernment, I joined the community, fulfilling a vocation I now realise had been in the making since my years at Santa Maria.

As I prepare to celebrate my Golden Jubilee of Religious Profession on 8 December this year, I reflect on my journey with immense gratitude. My training as a nurse has served me well in caring for my fellow sisters, and I’ve discovered hidden talents in music, arts, and crafts. Our monastery, a sanctuary of prayer and hope, continues to be a source of solace for many.

Santa Maria College laid the foundation for my journey of faith, learning, and service. The education and experiences I gained there remain invaluable, and I cherish the enduring connections with my classmates. As I look back, I see how every step was guided by God’s hand, leading me to a life of joy, simplicity, and fulfilment.

May God bless you all.
Sister Judith

Sister Judith’s story is a beautiful reminder of the power of faith, community, and education. Santa Maria College played an important role in shaping her path, just as it continues to do today for our current students. We hope her journey resonates with you as much as it did with us. May Sister Judith’s story be one of hope and inspiration for us all.

Alumni Spotlight, Community, Faith, Featured, Religious Vocation

Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.

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July 1, 2025

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