)
)
)
)
A three-day symposium will take place in New Zealand from 13th - 15th December 2026. The event will be hosted by Whānau Mercy Ministries and Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington.
Inspired by the 200th anniversary of Catherine McAuley opening the House of Mercy in Dublin (24 September 1827) the symposium will explore the impact of religion across education, healthcare, and social services, with a thematic lens grounded in Catherine McAuley’s own intention: “To serve God faithfully.”
The symposium offers an opportunity for wider exploration of what it means to be a religious organisation within the changing global environment. There will be a particular emphasis on the significance and contribution of First Nations perspectives to religious organisations.
The symposium, to be held at Rutherford House, Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington, will gather academic experts, Mercy leaders, educators, healthcare professionals, and advocates from across Aotearoa, the Pacific and beyond.
There will be a concurrent student programme, at the same venue, for those aged 16 years and over.