At the beginning of the year, I began to set the ball in motion for my three-month sabbatical.  The word sabbatical comes from the word sabbath: stopping, resting, delighting, and doing something totally different to my ministry. I was pray-dreaming with the Lord knowing that this would need considerable planning, also knowing that God had already planted dreams and desires in my heart that he wanted me to discover in the beauty of nature. 

The Australian Camino seemed like something achievable for me, and walking 15/20km per day whilst learning more about St Mary Mackillop, I was able to enjoy some places which are connected to the early Josephite story in Victoria and Adelaide.  I was able to take each day as it came, unstructured, and unhurried,  open to reconnecting with old friends as well as making new ones.  It seemed wherever I went there was a great need to encourage people in their faith, and to pray together.

For much of my walk along the Great Southwest Walk, along the cliffs of Portland to Cape Bridgewater, I saw animals that I have not seen anywhere else such as the seal colony, whales, koalas, emus and wallabies.  My sabbatical has drawn me to a deeper trust in God’s will to lead and guide me during my walks. I’ve seen his provision in ways I never have and journeying with Mary Mackillop, I’ve come to see that “All is in God’s Hands”.

Rachel Fleurant