Aubert House Liturgy 2026

On Wednesday the 16th of September Aubert House celebrated a Liturgy for our patron Venerable Suzanne Aubert.

Students heard about the life of Suzanne Aubert, and listened to a thoughtful reflection on how her life can be a inspiration to us all. 

"Venerable Suzanne Aubert was born in France in 1835. She sailed to New Zealand when she was 25 years old, and lived here the rest of her life. Her life was one of great strength, and great compassion. Known to many as Meri Hōhepa Suzanne Aubert, she worked tirelessly with Māori, with the disabled, and with those living in poverty. Our Patron gave more to others than she received in return; she focused on service, and making everyone feel important. Sometimes an action as simple as offering a warm bowl of soup, can make a person feel valued. Suzanne Aubert knew this, and wanted everyone to feel a sense of dignity. The Sisters of Compassion, which she set up in 1883, are still helping those in need today - a testament to Meri Hōhepa Suzanne Aubert’s mission. Throughout her life she advocated for Māori, learning Te Reo, Tikanga, and Rongoā, and using them in her everyday life. This week as we celebrate Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori, let us remember that our Patron knew the importance of Te Ao Maōri, and embracing and celebrating our culture, traditions, and language.

Let us also reflect on how Venerable Suzanne Aubert’s example of selfless love and service, can inspire us to strive to do the same in our day and age, and even in our everyday life at School. "

Thank you to all those ākonga and staff who helped with this Liturgy, and to those whānau who were able to attend.

Here is Aubert House Leader Lauren Murillo's reflection on the life of Suzanne Aubert.

The reading about the Final Judgement (Matthew 25:34-40) reminds us that our faith shows itself in how we treat others, especially those who are vulnerable or left out. Jesus teaches that when we show compassion to those in need, we are serving him. This message challenges us to look beyond ourselves and recognise the dignity and worth of every person. Jesus identifies with suffering; this does not mean serving the needy is LIKE serving Jesus, but it IS serving him.Suzanne Aubert was a great example of this message. Throughout her life, Aubert cared for those often excluded from society, including the poor, the sick, and the most vulnerable. She especially advocated for Māori communities, learning Te Reo and building strong relationships with Māori people. Aubert didn’t just feel empathy for those who were suffering; she turned her faith into practical action by providing care, food, shelter and education.As a school community inspired by Suzanne Aubert, we are encouraged to follow her example of compassion and service. We are encouraged to live out this message in our daily lives. At school, this could look like inviting those who are alone to sit with you, helping those who are struggling with homework or classwork, or supporting organisations such as Young Vinnies by donating cans or non-perishable items to help those in need. At home, we can help our parents by doing simple chores such as setting the table for dinner or, when a family member becomes ill, taking time to care for them. These small acts of selfless, compassionate service can transform a culture of isolation into a community of deep belonging.Venerable Suzanne Aubert… Pray for us