Who We Are
Who We Are
The Evangelical Sisterhood of Mary is an international, interdenominational Christian community of women devoted to a life of prayer, reconciliation, and wholehearted love for Jesus.
Our Australian centre, established in 1981, is known as Canaan of God’s Comfort. From here, we serve not only Australia, but also New Zealand, South-East Asia, and the Pacific Islands. While our ministry reaches far beyond our gates, we remain deeply connected to the local community and regularly welcome visitors, churches, and groups for retreats, days of prayer, and teaching.
Our Place
Canaan of God’s Comfort is set in peaceful surrounds in Theresa Park, approximately 55 km south-west of Sydney. The property includes:
- A historic church and former one-room schoolhouse with the schoolmaster’s cottage
- A Prayer Garden depicting scenes from Jesus’ suffering, death, and resurrection (open 10am - 5pm)
- A bookshop offering the Sisters’ literature in many languages
- Accommodation for the delivery of our in-house retreats (max: 14 people)
- Picnic facilities for small groups
At the heart of the property, a banner stands as a testimony of thanksgiving, honouring God for all He has done at Canaan of God’s Comfort.
Prayer, Hospitality and Fellowship
Throughout the year, we warmly welcome individuals and small groups for day visits to Canaan of God’s Comfort. Visitors are invited to step away from the busyness of daily life and spend unhurried time in quiet reflection in our Prayer Garden and Chapel, seeking God’s presence in stillness and prayer.
Each weekday at 3.00 pm (except Wednesdays, Saturdays & Sundays), we hold a Public Prayer Reflection on the Passion Way of Jesus, open to those who are visiting on the day. This time of prayer follows Jesus’ journey of suffering and love, offering space for remembrance, repentance, and renewed hope.
Our Ministry
Our ministry flows from a deep love for Jesus and a desire to share His love in practical, life-giving ways. This includes producing literature and audio-visual resources that are freely available and widely distributed. Our written materials address themes such as: first love for Jesus, reconciliation, faith and prayer, illness, loneliness, ageing, spiritual discernment, and hope in times of testing. Many have found encouragement and help through these resources, which are placed in churches, hospitals, and other public spaces.
We are often invited to speak with churches and other community groups, both in Australia and internationally, on topics such as loving Jesus wholeheartedly, living in reconciliation, repentance, spiritual warfare, and becoming spiritually strong for challenging times.