She Lived Only 28 Years — Meet Australia's Next Saint

Have you ever heard of Eileen O'Connor, Australia's next saint?

I recently discovered her while reading the novel Every Inch a Saint – A Novel About Eileen O'Connor, Australia's Next Saint-in-Waiting by author Kate Clinch.

Eileen O'Connor only lived to be twenty-eight and was extremely ill most of her short life, and yet she founded an order called Our Lady's Nurses for the Poor from her sick bed…how did she do it?

I had the privilege of interviewing author Kate Clinch and asking her that exact question in this week's episode! Kate's story is just as fascinating as Eileen's!

Let me tell you a bit about Kate: Born in England, Kate has lived in Adelaide, Australia since she was six years old. She worked as a solo General Practitioner until a near death experience prompted a change of direction and inspired an enduring interest in spirituality and mysticism.

Every Inch a Saint: A Novel About Eileen O'Connor, Australia's Second Saint-in-Waiting is Kate's debut novel. She was diagnosed with cancer during the process of writing Every Inch a Saint, and at that time, Eileen changed from being a fascinating, heartbreakingly inspirational historical figure to a real spiritual companion and source of comfort.

In this episode, Kate shares her own journey of discovering Eileen O'Connor and the profound impact that this sacred friendship has had on her life, and how connecting with this saint can impact yours as well.

I hope this interview inspires you as much as it inspired me!

Ps- if you want the link to her book, click here for the show notes.

Key Learnings:

1)  Born in England, Kate has lived in Adelaide, Australia since she was six years old. She worked as a solo General Practitioner until a near death experience prompted a change of direction and inspired an enduring interest in spirituality and mysticism.

2)  Following a suggestion by someone who knew of Eileen O'Connor, Kate went to the historical home of Eileen O'Connor, which contains a chapel that used to be her bedroom. Eileen's body is buried under that room. Kate says "As I sat in the pew of that chapel, the air was electric and I knew I was in the presence of a saint."