In 1987 a group of Sisters and friends began meeting for prayer and discussion on Josephite history, spirit and mission.  The group called itself CO-MEMBERS. Many were involved as volunteers at Nazareth Rest Home.

However over time those who participated came from wider connections with the Sisters and their mission, and the group chose then to call itself FRIENDS of the Sisters.  The group met in Whanganui, and the meetings encompassed faith discussions, prayer services and social gatherings.

In 2004, the Sisters recognised a wider association of people and groups living out the Josephite vision. As they moved towards more participative leadership, and with greater involvement of lay members on their Trust and Management Boards, these New Links became the space for sharing and connecting with the Josephite spirit. The Josephite Affiliates group now seeks ways to bring about these connections, and their initiatives include the quarterly gatherings for prayer and friendship, and support of the regular solstice newsletters.

To contact Josephite Affiliates group, please email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

‘Whoever does not know their past does not know their story’. (Mary MacKillop). 

Affiliates Virginia Hillgrove (Christchurch), and Lynette Roberts-King (Palmerston North), on their 2008 pilgrimage are pictured with Kath Bellany (Perthville) in the Sisters of St Joseph Graveyard, Perthville, Australia.