Sr Carmel farewelled after 32 years of service in Tasmania
By Heather Excell
When Sr Carmel Hinkley RSM first arrived in Bridgewater in 1984, she expected to stay for only three years. Now, after 32 years of service in Tasmania, she has been farewelled from the communities that became “a gift” in her life.
A Mass of thanksgiving was celebrated by Archbishop Tony Ireland at St Paul’s Catholic Church on 24 September, the Feast of Our Lady of Mercy, as Sr Carmel prepared to move to Warrnambool, Victoria.
In his homily, Archbishop Tony reflected on the Hebrew word ‘hesed’, meaning ‘steadfast love’ or ‘abiding solidarity’, and the Gospel call to recognise Christ in those who are hungry, homeless or in need.
“That is mercy,” Archbishop Tony said, providing a fitting description of Sr Carmel’s ministry. “Mercy rolls up sleeves. Mercy notices the person who might otherwise be overlooked. Mercy asks, ‘How can I help?’”
A Sister of Mercy for 47 years, Sr Carmel first arrived in Bridgewater in January 1984 to help establish St Paul’s Catholic School, which opened the following month.
Although she initially expected to spend only three years in Tasmania, she stayed for eight before returning to Victoria. In 2002, Sr Carmel returned to Tasmania and has remained closely involved with St Paul’s, Bridgewater, and St Brigid’s, New Norfolk.
Her roles in Catholic Education have included teaching, religious education coordination, pastoral care, and school leadership, including serving as the principal of St Paul’s from 1988 to 1991.
Stuart Kelly, former principal of St Brigid’s New Norfolk, recalled seeing Sr Carmel’s understanding of mercy lived out through her listening, encouragement, prayer and presence.
He remembered one particularly difficult situation in which staff were faced with a complex ethical dilemma and conflicting advice. After listening to the discussions taking place, Sr Carmel stood and asked simply, “What would Jesus do?”
Her question reminded those present to respond with patience and love.
Cameron Brown, former principal of St Paul’s Bridgewater, also addressed those gathered, speaking about how Sr Carmel’s influence extended far beyond her formal roles.
He recalled how, while serving as religious education coordinator, Sr Carmel suggested stepping back from her position to mentor a younger educator in developing their leadership skills.
The successful candidate went on to become deputy principal, and in 2022 was appointed as principal of St Brigid’s Catholic School.
“You stepped into the lives, the struggles and the hearts of the students, families and staff of these communities,” Cameron said.
Sr Carmel said Tasmania has been “a gift” to her, giving thanks for the communities that have become part of her life.
“St Paul’s and St Brigid’s will both go with me,” she said. “I just want you to know that you’ll always be in my heart.”
“Thank you,” Archbishop Tony said, “for the children you have taught, the families you have accompanied, and the people in whom you have recognised the face of Christ”.