St John’s Orphanage in Goulburn has long been a sanctuary for boys in need, providing safety, education, and unwavering support.
At the heart of this nurturing environment was Sr Genevieve Cummins, affectionately known as “Mother Gen.”
Her remarkable 68 years as a professed Sister of Mercy set a standard of love and compassion that profoundly shaped the lives of countless boys.
Born on 12 February 1906, in Murringo on the southwestern slopes of NSW, Eileen Cummins dedicated her life to serving others.
She entered St Michael’s Novitiate in Goulburn in 1930, beginning a journey that included teaching in various schools and, most notably, caring for the boys at St John’s for 28 years.
The boys found in her a motherly figure, someone who provided the emotional support and guidance that many were missing in their lives.
Sr Genevieve’s influence extended beyond academics; she encouraged the boys to engage in sports, music, and Irish folklore, fostering a well-rounded upbringing.
Neil McEwan, a former resident of St John’s, shared his heartfelt memories of life at the orphanage, having arrived at the age of six.
His father placed him on a train to St John’s after Christmas, marking the last time he would see him.
Neil recalls how the nuns, including Sr Genevieve, enforced a rule of silence about the ongoing war, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty.
Yet, the day the war ended, Sr Genevieve summoned young “McEwan” to ring the orphanage bell, proclaiming, “The war has ended!”
He vividly remembers the strain in his arms from ringing the bell with all his might, symbolising hope and freedom—a reflection of the nurturing spirit she instilled in her boys.
Neil’s admiration for Sr Genevieve is evident as he describes her in three word; “loving, patient, and kind.”
Her guidance extended to spiritual matters, as she encouraged Neil to pray the rosary daily.
Inspired by her commitment to the faith, Neil, who entered St John’s as a non-Catholic, sought permission from his aunty to join the church.
At just seven years old, he was welcomed into the Catholic faith at St Peter & Paul’s Church.
The profound impact of Sr Genevieve and the other Sisters of Mercy inspired Neil to consider a vocation to the priesthood.
However, his life took a different turn when he met his future wife Patricia at a CYO dance; and together they went on to have a beautiful Catholic family of their own.
Recently, Neil attended the final reunion of St John’s Home Old Boys, joining around 600 others in celebrating their shared history and the enduring legacy of Sr Genevieve.
To this day, Neil remains a devout Catholic, praying for her and the Mercy Sisters with each rosary he picks up.
This article honours Sr Genevieve Cummins, a true mother to the boys of St John’s, and highlights how her unwavering love and guidance shaped their lives, instilling faith and values that continue to resonate today.