Southern Cross Care Parkes resident Sr Florence Kinsela marked her 102nd birthday with a celebration as memorable as the life she’s led – including a surprise visit from the Bishop of Wilcannia Forbes.
The beloved Mercy Sister, who has devoted more than eight decades to religious life, described Bishop Columba Macbeth-Green’s presence as “a true blessing” that made her milestone birthday feel nothing short of divine.
“Him coming all this way and giving me a special blessing and presenting me with his medal for service made my birthday so special.
“It was an honour to have him visit me here at my home.”
Bishop Columba said he enjoyed the visit just as much as Sister Florence, calling it a real joy and an honour to give her a special blessing for her 102nd birthday.
“Throughout her remarkable life, Sister has been a shining example of faith, service, and unwavering devotion,” he said.
“For over eight decades, she has lived out the works of mercy, touching countless lives with her kindness and compassionate heart.
“We are all deeply grateful for her presence among us and pray for her health and happiness.”
Affectionately known as Sr Flo, she’s become a social media sensation, attracting nearly 1000 ‘likes’ and more than 150 comments from well-wishers.
At 102, she confessed she hadn’t imagined moving into residential care quite so soon, having spent the past 15 years living independently in the neighbouring retirement village.
Her longevity, she believes, is thanks to the Lord. “God has a purpose for me – he is a good fellow,” she said with a smile.
“Although I thought moving into residential care would come some way down the track after living in the village for so long.
“I really like and enjoy living here, but I didn’t anticipate I’d be here just yet.”
Having lived through wars, moon landings and even 31 Australian prime ministers, the very popular centenarian said throughout her 15 years living in the village and the last 12 months in residential care, she has thoroughly enjoyed carrying on her ministry visiting those in need and suffering ill health.
“I don’t feel 102, I don’t look 102 and I don’t act 102,” she laughed.
“Honestly, sometimes I can’t believe I’m this old.
“My ministry in visitation has brought me great fulfillment and I feel very fortunate to still be able to do it.
“I have never regretted a moment of being a nun. I have enjoyed every moment of it.”
Born in Parkes in 1923, Sr Florence grew up in the town and moved to the local convent at just 11 after deciding school wasn’t for her.
She spent her time helping the sisters in the laundry and kitchen and never left, officially entering as a novice at 17 and becoming fully professed at 22.
“Despite thinking they were born that way, when I was asked if I wanted to become a nun I said yes,” she smiled.
“I entered with my family’s blessing, and it’s knowing they were happy with the life I chose has stayed with me throughout my 82-year ministry.
“I have always been a cook; from the time I moved into the convent as a child right up until now.
“Although I must admit it’s lovely living here and being able to leave the cooking to somebody else for a change.
“I’ve had a blessed and memorable life and was so glad I could spend my birthday with so many lovely people including my family and Bishop Columba.
“I don’t need for anything for my birthday, spending time with everybody was the best way to celebrate my special birthday.”
Debbie Cramsie is a former senior journalist at The Catholic Weekly and the communications manager at Southern Cross Care (NSW & ACT).
