Sr Mary O’Shannassy, CatholicCare’s Director of Prison Ministry, continues to garner recognition for her outstanding contribution to the Victorian community.
Above: Sr Mary O’Shannassy OAM JP FRVAHJ
On Monday at a meeting of the Royal Victorian Association of Honorary Justices (RVAHJ), Sr Mary was awarded a Fellow of the RVAHJ, in recognition of significant service and ongoing support.
Sr Mary has been a Justice of the Peace for fifty years, both here in Victoria and in NSW, and continues to be one of the few JPs who are available after hours.
“I’m a bit overcome actually,” said Sr Mary when asked about the special acknowledgment. “It’s come right out of the blue and I was very surprised.”
“We at CatholicCare are not at all surprised to hear that Sr Mary has been recognised for her work,” said Paul Zammit, Senior Manager of Pastoral Services. “Sr Mary has served as a prison chaplain for over 23 years – and has provided leadership for the Prison Ministry for over 16 years. We are proudly aware of her dedication and determination to serve the community, and congratulate her wholeheartedly on receiving this fellowship award.”
Following the Order of Australia medal received in 2017, and the commemorative pin acknowledging 20 years of service at Port Phillip Prison last November, Sr Mary can now add a new award to her collection - and another post nominal to her name.