Why Is Caroline Chisholm Considered A Christian Humanist?

Born in 1808, England, Caroline Chisholm was christened and became part of the Church of England. She grew up on a farm and was the youngest of 16 siblings, from an early age Caroline was introduced to practices of humanity i.e. her father caring for a poor maimed soldier and he informed them of the man who fought for them (country, people, risking life). She was educated by a governess and encouraged to take part in local community discussions. Later on she met Archibald Chisholm, a Roman Catholic, 10 years her senior, he was a Scottish soldier in the East India Companies Army, and they then married in 1830. Caroline arrived in Australia in 1838 and was a devoted wife and mother of eight children, who helped to give dignity to women and families
in harsh colonial societies. Her achievement was made possible by her idealism, courage and supportive husband.
As Jesus said, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind, and thy neighbour as thyself.” (Luke 10:25-37) Caroline Chisholm portrayed the role of the welcoming neighbour, who created a safer and healthier environment for young girls and woman to live and survive in.
This then expanded into helping family people and young men, encouraging employment for their comfort and survival needs. The Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney (2008/2009) describes Caroline as a ‘Christian humanist’. As such, she believed that the penal system was a harsh way to punish those who disobeyed the law. She envisioned a system in which we could create a better growing atmosphere and give the criminals a chance to earn a living for themselves and build an improved lifestyle involving less crime. The above examples are just some of the many ways in which Caroline Chisholm represents Catholicism and acts upon the word of the Lord. Caroline’s work has inspired the Christians of today to honour her legacy and message of goodwill to others. This is seen throughout the Australian Nation, specifically in Victoria, where most of her history is
remembered.

Caroline noticed during the time of 1838 the war period, many of the soldier’s daughters were at something of a loose end, So in an attempt to create a better environment for these girls Chisholm founded a school at which they not only taught the three R’s but also practical domestic skills.
The school went on to become a great success, Caroline then began to observe the alarming increase in starving, unemployed girls who were ready prey for the deceitful. The governor allowed her to use a rat infested old barracks to house the girls. It was here that she could give motherly protection whilst arranging employment and suitable homes for them to then go to. (It is this work at the “Home” that was portrayed on the old $5.00 note).
Most of the employment found by Caroline was available in the country areas, and for each and every one of the girls Caroline personally arranged employment and accompanied the girls to their new-found homes and jobs. Many of these girls then married and settled in these country areas found by
Chisholm.
Caroline Chisholm welcomed all people with open arms, she made sure that each and every one of the immigrants coming into Australia had developed a sense of belonging and security by inviting them into her own home. Caroline encouraged young men to seek employment so they could make a living and fend for their own families. She asked for the families to write a ‘statement’ describing their settlement experiences for her to the pass onto the new-coming immigrants. This made it easier for Caroline to understand the life and drastic measures in which these people had to undertake and suffer through, in order to get to by. On the 26th of July 1851, The Family Colonization Society was founded, enabling young families migrating to Australia to come well prepared and remain optimistic for the journey ahead, while reassuring them of a new beginning. Caroline was then able to uncover a whole new way of transportation to Australia, by ensuring a high-level of hygiene, ventilation and an ample amount of fresh food and water. This became a revolution to those travelling to and from Australia, preventing disease and discomfort.
As we reflect on Caroline Chisholm whole life story, it is clear to see that from a young age she always strived to be a helping hand for those in need. Her ongoing acts of kindness and compassion for others resembled a saint like figure to the Australian people of her time. Archibald, Caroline’s husband, was her number one support, who encouraged goodwill and instilled his Catholic faith in Caroline. She played the role of a generous and giving educator for young girls and helping them to realise their potential, helping them to recognise how they are capable of more than they think. My father is Church of England and he encourages me every day to be kind and welcoming to others. As a young Catholic woman, I perceive Caroline as a role model who has embarked on an incredible journey. Her humanity has depicted the true values in life.