Jane Belli

Born
27 May 1936

Entered Eternal Life
23 June 2005

Incorporated as a Member
of the Society of Christian Doctrine
June 1956

Three years after the foundation of the Society of Christian Doctrine in 1907, the women Members were formed. In 1910 Saint George Preca, together with Gannina Cutajar formed the first Centre for girls in Paola, Malta. The Belli sisters, Miriam, Patricia and Jane who willingly joined the SDC, were from the Msida centre in Malta.

Jane Belli was incorporated as a Member of the Society of Christian Doctrine in Malta in 1956. She emigrated with her family and her fellow Member sisters, to Australia, arriving in Melbourne on 3 March 1961.

Reverend Joseph Abela, the first Delegate of the Superior General in Australia, instructed the three Belli sisters for the first year and introduced them to church authorities. This contact with Father Abela and their commitment to the SDC, paved the way for them to continue with their ministry in Melbourne. They served the Maltese community faithfully, and in the beginning were not able to meet the many requests that came their way.

Jane worked hard for the introduction of the SDC in Australia and was especially encouraged by Fr Abela. She began teaching children at West Sunshine in 1962 and ministered to children and adults in various locations and settings around Melbourne over the past forty years. She usually looked after the older girls and continued teaching right up until the end; insisting on doing it. She worked hard in preparing her lessons for the children and was particularly active in the making of manger scenes at Christmas time.

She also assisted with the support groups for Maltese women since their beginning. Jane translated many works of the SDC from Maltese into English.

Jane loved her work in the SDC and the stability in her vocation and the faithfulness to the spirit of George Preca was exemplary. She was always there and had a stable influence on the children she taught. She was a great support to Miriam, Patricia and the other women Members in Australia and overseas.

Jane's story reveals that much depends on selfless and dedicated service to God and to others. God never lets down those who really trust in him. The joy in working for the Kingdom surpassed any difficulties that she had in her ministry.

Jane's whole life witnessed in mind, heart and soul the revelation of Jesus Christ to the world. She was a true disciple of Saint George Preca. We sincerely thank her for that.