Applications are invited for the women’s Study, Accompaniment and Mentoring (SAM) Program, an initiative of the Sisters of the Good Samaritan, in 2025. Core components include financial assistance for women undertaking tertiary studies, spiritual direction and mentoring. 

Since their foundation and throughout their 167-year history, the Sisters of the Good Samaritan have been committed to the flourishing of women. They have educated girls and women from pre-school to tertiary levels and have been engaged in adult education and adult faith formation. The Sisters are now inviting applications for the fifth year of their SAM Program.

“My main reason for applying for the SAM Program was to access the spiritual direction that was offered. I am hoping that through the support of the program, and my study in ministry, I will be better positioned to share a faith that I understand at a deeper level, to share it in an invitational way that will hopefully be life changing for others as well.” Helen Bachmann, Brisbane  

The program offers financial assistance to a maximum of $A8000 per year for women undertaking tertiary studies at a recognised theological institution. The grant can be spent on tuition or other expenses associated with the completion of the qualification.

“I applied for the SAM Program with the hope of meeting other Catholic women who are leaders in the Catholic Church, and I hope to be mutually influential in our growth and development.” Madelaine Schumann, East Gippsland

Core components of the program include opportunities for spiritual direction and mentoring. Invitations are also offered for participants to gather to share their experiences and to explore questions arising from their study in conversation with experienced women leaders in the Church.

“I was motivated by the opportunity of having a dedicated mentor and spiritual director assist me to set goals that would nurture my academic, professional and spiritual development as I navigate my path in educational leadership.” Rebel Clark, Port Stephens

Criteria

• Catholic women aged 30 years and over who are resident in Australia, Kiribati, the Philippines or Japan – countries where the Sisters of the Good Samaritan live and minister;
• An interest in the academic, spiritual and mentoring components of the program;
• Identification of current study being undertaken or a proposed course at a recognised theological institution;
• Evidence of leadership exercised in any context. Leadership experience in a not-for-profit organisation or a faith-based institution will be highly regarded; and
• Special consideration will be given to women who are experiencing financial hardship or who live in isolated communities.

To download this information as a flyer, click here.

For further information or to request an information pack, please send an email to samleadership@goodsams.org.au

Applications for the 2025 program have closed.

Meet the participants in this year’s program:

Good Samaritan Study and Mentoring Program goes from strength to strength, The Good Oil, May 2024.

Spiritual direction and mentoring are key elements of SAM Program, The Good Oil, June 2024.