A century ago, the Sisters of Mercy Parramatta arrived in Cronulla to plant the seeds of a ministry that would forever change the fabric of the peninsula.

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What began in the early 1900s as a humble commitment to education has flourished into a historic milestone, with the community recently coming together to celebrate 100 years of unwavering service to the region.

This centenary honours a journey that started with chalkboards and weatherboard cottages and has evolved into the sophisticated aged care provided today at Stella Maris.

For 63 of those 100 years, Stella Maris has stood as a cornerstone of the Sisters' legacy, transitioning their mission from the classroom to the bedside. The transformation of care since 1926 is profound; while the early days predated antibiotics and modern medical regulations, today's facility manages complex health needs for residents living well into their 90s. Yet, Congregational Leader Sister Margaret Jones said while the clinical capabilities have increased, the core of their mission remains rooted in the timeless necessity of human connection.

The festivities held recently drew residents, staff, and families together to reflect on this "faith in action." Among those celebrating was Sister Patricia Anderson, whose own story mirrors the growth of Cronulla itself. Arriving in 1959, she recalls a time when the Sisters slept on the verandahs of a timber bungalow, using umbrellas to block the morning sun, and walked the Esplanade to teach large classes at St Aloysius. Having witnessed the opening of the Kurnell Oil Refinery and the eventual establishment of Stella Maris, Sister Patricia's journey has now come full circle as she resides at the facility she helped build.

Facility manager Judy McMahon said the pioneer Sisters could never have imagined their humble beginnings would grow into such a vital mission.