Many Old Girls have fond memories of the Sisters of the Society of the Sacred Advent (SSA) and hold great admiration for their pioneering work in the education of young women. Bishop Sarah Plowman (’90) was particularly inspired by the Sisters and their philosophies during her time as a boarder at St Margaret’s (1989-90).

“In my home parish of Nambour, I had become involved in Anglican Youth Ministries (AYM) events. When I came to St Margaret’s, I asked if I could continue to be involved in these activities while at the school. Sister Chaseley Anne, who was in charge of the Boarding House at that time, was so supportive, even allowing me out on a Saturday evening to attend Youth Rallies. Another of the Sisters, Leanne, was also involved in AYM, so I was inspired by her energy and love for the Lord,” Bishop Sarah said.

The Sister’s spirituality is best observed through its six facets: incarnational faith, holistic education, compassion for those less fortunate, courageous hard work, adaptation to new challenges, and humility. The Sisters’ devotion to prayer and their faith inspired Bishop Sarah, who found the Sisters’ spirituality a motivation to explore her own.

“As a rather uninspired clarinettist, I would go to the music practice rooms each day before dinner in an attempt to improve as a musician. At 5:30 each afternoon, I would hear the bell ring for chapel, and I knew the Sisters were praying the Office. More often than not, instead of playing my clarinet, I chose to stop and pray along with the Sisters. I was alone, but not alone, as I knew my prayers joined with theirs in our separate quiet spaces. Needless to say, I no longer play the clarinet, but I still pray the Evening Office!”

After leaving St Margaret’s, Bishop Sarah undertook a Bachelor of Applied Science (Physics), through which she developed a deep appreciation for the beauty of the natural world.

“The outward simplicity belies a deep complexity to the natural world… Religion is one vehicle through which human beings are able to express our wonder at all that is and give thanks to the Author of such beauty and complexity. Neither science nor religion has all the answers to how to live a full human life, but both add to our understanding of what and where we are, and how we should be together,” she said.

In 1996, Bishop Sarah trained as a teacher, teaching Physics and Mathematics for two years before transitioning to the role of Youth Minister. Combining teaching Physics and Chaplaincy at All Saints Anglican School on the Gold Coast, Bishop Sarah found her purpose. This period marked the beginning of her deeper exploration of ministry in the Anglican Church, which itself has evolved significantly since the establishment of the SSA, especially regarding the role of women within the Church.

When Bishop Sarah first felt her call to service and ministry in 1990, becoming a priest was not an option. Reflecting on this, Bishop Sarah pays homage to the work of the SSA, and their role modelling of strength, fortitude and devotion.

“The female religious role models I knew were the Sisters of the SSA and so that is where I explored vocation in the first instance. I knew nothing of the persistence of the faithful women who had lobbied and stood firm around the world in their belief that they were called to be priests just as men were. I now know better and am deeply and profoundly grateful for the way in which they made my own ministry possible.”

In the Diocesan leadership team, Bishop Sarah will work alongside accomplished women such as herself who are also senior clergy, theologians, academics, and executive directors who make the Church what it is today.

“It’s such an honour to be a visible sign that our Church welcomes and celebrates the ministry of all people equally.”

Bishop Sarah hopes to bring the spirit of fun and energy from Anglican schools into her role.

“I hope that I am able to reach out from the margins of the church to share the good news of Jesus with those who may not be regular church members. They may discover why so many find community and hope and joy in our church family!”

Once again, the Old Girls’ Association congratulates Bishop Sarah on her consecration, and looks forward to witnessing the fun, spirited energy, and welcoming presence she will bring to the Northern Region as Bishop.

By Lizzie Fowler (’19)

Relationships and Mentoring Manager