Celebrations herald reopening of Hiruhārama / Jerusalem

More than 100 people with links to Hiruhārama/Jerusalem on the Whanganui River joined the celebrations on March 19.

The day began with a Pōhiri on to Patiarero Marae, followed by formal speeches and welcome on the Hiruhārama grounds. Bishop John Adams of Palmerston North conducted a blessing of the convent and church and celebrated the Mass at the restored St Jospeh’s Church.

Representing the Sisters of Compassion, Sister Margaret Anne Mills and ‘Alisi Tu’ipulotu planted a tree in honour of the legacy of Venerable Meri Hōhepa Suzanne Aubert.

Reflecting on the special day, Sister Margaret Anne said: “This is the place that inspired Meri Hōhepa Suzanne Aubert to build a community of women, Sisters of Compassion, to share in the call to live the Gospel. Today so many of you have embraced the call to share in the spirituality and example of Meri Hōhepa Suzanne Aubert. She is smiling upon us.”

Ron Hough of Ngāti Hau, who is a trustee of the Sisters of Compassion Group, wove together the shared histories of his tūpuna (ancestors) and Mother Aubert in his whaikōrero (address), grounded in manaakitanga (connectedness). His words affirmed a legacy of care and service, carried on by his mokopuna (grandchildren) and wider whānau through their stewardship of the Old Convent and Church, where Mīha (Mass) continues and the spirit of Pūaroha Compassion lives on at Hiruhārama.

Hiruhārama officially reopens to the public next month, taking bookings from April 1.

This year marks the centenary of the passing of Venerable Meri Hōhepa (Mary Joseph) Suzanne Aubert. Throughout 2026, the Compassion Whānau has a programme of events to celebrate the memory of Meri Hōhepa Suzanne Aubert’s life and to inspire people in living out their own faith.

Future events include a celebration of the work of Wellington’s Compassion Soup Kitchen in June, commemorating 125 years of service to the disadvantaged and vulnerable; a celebration of Suzanne Aubert’s phrase book and prayer book in conjunction with Te Reo Māori Language Week in September; a special prayer book for the Month of the Rosary in October; and hīkoi connecting Māori Eucharistic Communities and their Meri Hōhepa links. The year will culminate with a 100-year Memorial Mass at St Mary of the Angels Church, Wellington in October.

FULL STORY

Celebrations at Hiruhārama / Jerusalem ahead of reopening (Sisters of Compassion)

Remembering Suzanne Aubert 100-year anniversary (Sisters of Compassion)