Reimagining Catherine McAuley In Aotearoa New Zealand

Mercy In Action

Joys Outweigh Tears In Life-Changing Medical Mission In Peru

Ministries

Joys Outweigh Tears In Life-Changing Medical Mission In Peru

Ministries

Joys Outweigh Tears In Life-Changing Medical Mission In Peru

Waking before dawn, people living in the Andes in northern Peru, often must walk many miles to get a ride into the town of Chulucanas—a drive of four or five hours—just for the opportunity to get basic medical care from visiting U.S. doctors. The Sisters of Mercy have led teams of volunteers to Peru for decades, part of a mission that began when sisters in the region saw the dire need to minister to the healthcare needs of the poor especially in the farming villages of the sierra, the highland region. They recruited friends from Philadelphia-area Mercy hospitals to help address those needs.

Mercy Global Action Launches Mercy Water Justice Coalition

Mercy Global Action

Mercy Global Action Launches Mercy Water Justice Coalition

Mercy Global Action

Mercy Global Action Launches Mercy Water Justice Coalition

On World Water Day, Friday, March 22, 2024, Mercy Global Action announced the launch of an exciting new initiative: the Mercy Water Justice Coalition. This coalition represents the Mercy World’s commitment to the UN Water Action Agenda and our response to the growing commodification, degradation, and depletion of Earth’s precious water sources. The aim of this coalition is to identify ‘Mercy Water Leaders’ in all regions of the Mercy World. Mercy Water Leaders will be individuals who have an identified interest in water issues and are motivated to work alongside the MGA team to create and implement a ‘Water Action Agenda’ within their Mercy community, whether it be a Mercy school, university, congregation, ministry, or other organisation. Click on the read more button to see how you can put your Mercy organisation on the map as part of this global initiative.

Sisters Fight For ‘Bottom Drawer’ Issues For 50 Years At NETWORK

Advocacy

Sisters Fight For ‘Bottom Drawer’ Issues For 50 Years At NETWORK

Advocacy

Sisters Fight For ‘Bottom Drawer’ Issues For 50 Years At NETWORK

Helping the ignored or forgotten has always been at the heart of the work of the Sisters of Mercy and other Catholic sisters. Walking with the poor, the sick, the women and children, and the migrants is, in essence, a fight for justice. That same fire for justice has fuelled sisters in the NETWORK lobby, including many Sisters of Mercy, in their struggle for change over the past 50 years. In her newly published book, Sr. Mara Rutten highlights the efforts of the organization that were purposely concentrated on “bottom drawer” issues not addressed by other groups. Called to Action: NETWORK’s 50 Years of Political Ministry recounts the work that began with the aim of changing the policies that impact the problems at their source, problems front-line ministries struggled to address, including poverty and housing.

 Permaculture Gardening In Uganda

Mercy Beyond Borders

Permaculture Gardening In Uganda

Mercy Beyond Borders

Permaculture Gardening In Uganda

Thanks to a Mercy Beyond Borders funded partnership with the non-profit African Women Rising, Alice is among 250 refugee women who have learned permaculture gardening this year; the technique produces high yields in confined spaces such as those allotted to the refugees. Click the read more button to view Alice's story.

McAuley Celebrates Milestone In Ballarat

Mercy Ministry Companions

McAuley Celebrates Milestone In Ballarat

Mercy Ministry Companions

McAuley Celebrates Milestone In Ballarat

McAuley recently celebrated the 5th anniversary of the opening of McAuley House Ballarat, formerly home to Ballarat-based Sisters of Mercy, and its first accommodation service outside of Melbourne. The accommodation is pioneering an innovative approach to supporting people as they age, involving 14 small and connected households rather than a large, impersonal, and institutional setting. Since opening in 2019, the McAuley team has helped more than 80 women, including residents and women living in the community, rebuild their lives. Click on read more to view Tania’s story. Tania is a former resident of McAuley House in Ballarat and was interviewed by Rochelle Kirkham from the Ballarat Courier. The photography is courtesy of Lachlan Bence.

Mercy Global Action Announces Cohort Four Of The Mercy Emerging Leaders Fellowship

Mercy Global Action

Mercy Global Action Announces Cohort Four Of The Mercy Emerging Leaders Fellowship

Mercy Global Action

Mercy Global Action Announces Cohort Four Of The Mercy Emerging Leaders Fellowship

On International Women’s Day 2024, Mercy International Association announced the ten women who will form the fourth cohort of the Mercy Global Action Emerging Leaders Fellowship (MELF) from 2024–2025. The MELF Program, grounded in the three pillars of justice, leadership, and mercy, aims to uplift women to become transformative feminist leaders who  empower others, enable creativity, and facilitate mobilisation around the collective goals of mercy. Click on the read more button to view information about the ten fellows and their hopes for the programme.

A Typical Day for a Non-Typical Volunteer: A Glimpse Into My Baltimore MVC Experience

Mercy Volunteer Corps

A Typical Day for a Non-Typical Volunteer: A Glimpse Into My Baltimore MVC Experience

Mercy Volunteer Corps

A Typical Day for a Non-Typical Volunteer: A Glimpse Into My Baltimore MVC Experience

Despite not fitting the typical volunteer profile, Silvana's decision to join Mercy Volunteer Corps was deeply rooted in her faith and her call from God. In this heartfelt blog post, Silvana shares a glimpse into a typical day when she witnesses God's love and mercy in her service. Click on the read more button to view Silvana's story.

Mercy Matters

 On This Day

Fact

On This Day

March 28, 1869

Foundation to St Alphonsus, New Orleans from St Louis.

St. Pius X School Honors Sisters of Mercy

Excellence in Education

St. Pius X School Honors Sisters of Mercy

In 1955, the Sisters of Mercy founded St. Pius X School in Santa Fe Springs, California. Over the course of the next thirty-three years, sixty-four Sisters were involved in administration, teaching, mentoring, counseling, and caring deeply for thousands of students. In late January, the local church was filled with alumni, family, friends, and parishioners to celebrate and honor the Sisters. Fr. Benson gave a rousing homily that highlighted the Sisters and spoke of the value of Catholic education at the opening of Catholic Schools Week and the Open House at the parish school. Click on the read more link to view Marcel Vien's article on the celebrations.

Mercy Outreach Ministry Named Organization Of The Year

Awards

Mercy Outreach Ministry Named Organization Of The Year

In recent weeks, the team at Cooper-Anthony Mercy Child Advocacy Center (CAMCAC) was awarded Organization of the Year in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce awarded the outreach ministry on Feb. 1 at its annual banquet. Tracey Childress, executive director, and Holly Heer, development supervisor, accepted the award that is bestowed upon a local organization for service and contribution to the Hot Springs community.

The Benefits Of Going On Retreat

Sabbatical Retreat

The Benefits Of Going On Retreat

In October 2023, Sr. Delores Hannon participated in Mercy International Association's annual Sabbatical Retreat. Click on the read more button to view Sr. Delores Hannon's lively reflection on her Sabbatical journey in Dublin.

Mercy Border Immersion Delegation 2024

Mercy Justice

Mercy Border Immersion Delegation 2024

Two Mercy immersion delegations to the U.S.-Mexico border are being planned by the Institute Justice Team for 2024. The delegations are educational and designed for participants to return to their ministries prepared to raise awareness about immigration and the root causes of forced migration.

  • El Paso, Texas; Juárez, Mexico, April 21–26, 2024. 
  • Rio Grande Valley, South Texas (McAllen), November 3–8, 2024.

 

To apply for either immersion delegation, please contact the Mercy Justice Team with any questions at justice@sistersofmercy.org. Click on the read more button for more information on the Mercy Border Immersion Delegation 2024.

Whānau Mercy Ministries Hikoi Tapu 2024

Hikoi Tapu

Whānau Mercy Ministries Hikoi Tapu 2024

Mercy International Association was delighted to welcome seventeen pilgrims on the first Whānau Mercy Ministries Hikoi Tapu Pilgrimage. This five-day programme at Catherine’s House was coordinated by Anna Nicholls, with inputs from Patricia O’ Donovan, Margaret Daly, Mary Reynolds, Margaret Roche, Mary Conway, Peggy Collins, Colleen Swain, Cecilie Kern, Isabelle Salter, Siobhan Kenny and Carla Soren. Highlights from the pilgrimage included a walking tour of Catherine’s Dublin, a day trip to Glendalough, in Co. Wicklow, a visit to Coolock House, a leadership workshop, a presentation on Mercy International Association's Preservica digital archiving project, and a fascinating range of talks and workshops on Mercy heritage and the founding women of Mercy.

Mercy Hospital Pacific Community Eye Health Session

Community Outreach

Mercy Hospital Pacific Community Eye Health Session

Accessing eye care in any society can be a challenge for many. In late February, Mercy Hospital hosted an eye health session with our Pacific community. Dr. Francesc March, Dr. Xaviour Walker, and Med. student Solomon Filipo presented their research and information involving dementia and good eye health. Alofa Lale spoke about our surgical fee relief and how we can support cataract surgery if needed. The group asked lots of good questions and enjoyed hearing about how to look after their eyes. This is the first of further eye health sessions for the various communities we serve.

Sr. Elizabeth Small Makes Perpetual Vows In Guyana

Final Vows

Sr. Elizabeth Small Makes Perpetual Vows In Guyana

In early February, Sr. Elizabeth Small made her profession of perpetual vows in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Georgetown, Guyana. Click on the read more link to view photographs from the ceremony.

Mercy Students Speak Out Against Gun Violence

Gun Violence

Mercy Students Speak Out Against Gun Violence

In recent weeks, Mercy students were featured in  ‘A Matter of Spirit’ published by the Intercommunity Peace and Justice Center. This timely publication explores the impact of gun violence on children and teenagers in the United States and offers students an opportunity to speak out. Eliyani Torres, a sophomore at St. Catharine Academy (Bronx, New York), shared her experience of losing a friend to gang-related violence. She reflected, "We live in a messed-up world where gun violence is everywhere. You don't even have to be in a gang or anything. They'll just shoot you automatically. They shoot up schools for no reason. And it's just unacceptable. Put the gun down." Emma Lemieux and Abigail Gomes, seniors at Mercy High School (Middletown, Connecticut), discussed their short film, "Are You With Us?" which explores the impact that gun violence threats have had on their lives. Click on the read more link to view the publication and video.

Mercy Associates In The Philippines

Mercy Associates

Mercy Associates In The Philippines

Mercy Associates in the Philippines comprises four clusters: Iligan City, Pagadian City, Ozamiz City, and Alicia, Zamboanga Sibugay. From the four clusters, there are 61 members: 52 full pledged members and nine aspirants. As associates, they are doing the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy as partners with the Sisters of Mercy. They support the needs of the sisters through their time, talents, and treasures. Click on the read more button to view the full article.

Service Learning: A New Rubric from Belize

Mercy Education

Service Learning: A New Rubric from Belize

At Muffles College High School (Orange Walk Town, Belize), students annually complete a community service report highlighting their volunteer work over the year. To emphasize service learning, the rubric includes background information about the service recipient or service site, reflection, prayer and more. Mrs. Patricia Luna, head of the religion department at Muffles, reflected on the service learning program: "A famous maxim used by our foundress, Catherine McAuley said that 'we need to teach our students for earth without unfitting them for heaven.' Our service program here at Muffles is specially designed to teach and guide our students to live out their Mercy identity and the school’s mission and to put this into practice through the Spiritual and Corporal Works of Mercy in their daily lives. It was designed to allow our students to reach out to their community in the poor, the sick, the elderly, the unemployed, the forgotten and even those whom our society considers different. It aims to advocate and promote the protection of mother earth, the defense of women and women’s issues and of course to help and defend those who come from a foreign country who seek refuge in Belize. Click the read more button to view the full article.

Sr. Bernadette Maria Knopek Receives Cork County Mayor’s Community Awards 2024

Awards

Sr. Bernadette Maria Knopek Receives Cork County Mayor’s Community Awards 2024

Congratulations to Sr. Bernadette Maria Knopek, who was among the recipients of the Cork County Mayor’s Awards at Cork County Hall recently. Cllr. Frank O’Flynn hosted an evening of music and feasting to be remembered. The citation in the official programme read as follows: “Sr. Bernadette Maria has dedicated her life to Charleville and the surrounding areas as a teacher and a representative promoting the historical and cultural life of the Mercy Heritage Centre. She has promoted the arts, reading, poetry, and writers’ groups.” Bernadette is involved in the local parish, visits several nursing homes, chatting with the residents, reading poems, and demonstrating artefacts which takes them on a trip down Memory Lane. With Sr. Joan O'Sullivan, she sings and plays music for them and also for the local daycare center. Conducting guided tours in the Mercy Heritage Centre is something Bernadette really enjoys. She takes visitors to see various places of interest in the town and is always willing to facilitate research. Since her appointment at the end of 2016, over seven thousand visitors have come and enjoyed the wonderful exhibits on display.

Catholic Sisters Week

Traditions

Catholic Sisters Week

Catholic Sisters Week took place from March 8th to 14th, 2024. Here is a fascinating video conversation from American Sisters Donna and Pat Coward, sisters by birth, reflecting on their journeys to becoming Sisters of Mercy.

The Sisters of Mercy Latin America and Caribbean Conference

Mercy Conferences

The Sisters of Mercy Latin America and Caribbean Conference

The Latin America and Caribbean Conference (Sisters of Mercy) was held virtually on February 23 and 24, with the participation of over 35 sisters from various Central and South American communities. The leadership team of the Sisters of Mercy from St. John’s, Newfoundland, also participated. The thrust of the group was centered on the theme of the Synodal of (walking together as Mercy: listening and discerning in the Holy Spirit*)*. The emphasis was on inclusion and openness. Participants were invited to reflect and share in a small group their experiences of a situation in the church that was not synodal and also of a situation in the church that was synodal. Participants also shared their experience and the situation in their country or area. The sessions had time for prayer, reflection, and sharing, as well as artistic expression and body movement that energized. The next conference will be in 2027 in Peru.

Mercy Global Action Hosts CSW Parallel Event

Mercy Global Action

Mercy Global Action Hosts CSW Parallel Event

On March 15, Mercy Global Action was pleased to host an in-person parallel event alongside the 68th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women, titled "Financing with Dignity: 
Aligning Capital and Values for Gender Justice." The purpose of this event was to share Mercy Global Action's experiences of values-driven investment in gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls. The moderator of the event was MGA’s own Jemima Welsh, and esteemed panelists included Sr. Marilyn Lacey rsm, Executive Director of Mercy Beyond Borders, Bryan Pini, President of Mercy Investment Services, Ciara Feehely, Head of Fundraising and Communications at VITA; and Elizabeth Garlow, Co-Founder of the Francesco Collaborative. Click the read more button to access a recording of the event.

Santa Casa Sabbatical Retreat

Retreats

Santa Casa Sabbatical Retreat

The Santa Casa Retreat Centre in southern Victoria, Australia, is hosting a forty-day Sabbatical Retreat this coming September, from the 14th of September to the 26th of October 2024. This year's theme is 'Honoring the Soul'. Click on the read more button for more information about this retreat.

St. Patrick’s College Proudly Participates In Project Compassion

Mercy Partners

St. Patrick’s College Proudly Participates In Project Compassion

St. Patrick’s College Townsville recently came together to mark the beginning of the Lenten season with an Ash Wednesday liturgy. During Lent, the College is proudly participating in Project Compassion, run by Caritas Australia, to support the most vulnerable communities in our world. This year, the theme is ‘For All Future Generations’, which challenges us to care for our common home to shape a better tomorrow.

Further Resources

International Day of Zero Waste

Worth Knowing

International Day of Zero Waste

International Day of Zero Waste is celebrated on March 30, 2024. This year’s campaign highlights the relationship between waste and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The Sustainable Development Goals address all forms of waste, including food waste, natural resource extraction, and electronic waste.

Click
Reflection on the Gospel-Easter Vigil Year B

Worth Reading

Reflection on the Gospel-Easter Vigil Year B

Read Sr. Veronica Lawson’s insightful reflection on the Gospel-Easter Vigil Year B (Mark 16:1–8).

Read
Resisting Evil: A Reflection on John 19:25-30

Worth Reading

Resisting Evil: A Reflection on John 19:25-30

Read Sr. Kathleen Rushton's powerful reflection on John 19:25-30 .

Read
A Godly Guffaw By Sr. Suzanne Ryder

Worth Reading

A Godly Guffaw By Sr. Suzanne Ryder

Read Sr. Suzanne Ryder's thought provoking reflection, A Godly Guffaw. This reflection is published in the new blog series from the Congregation of the Sisters of Mercy. To view more articles from the series, please visit www.sistersofmercy.ie/blogs.

Read

Worth Playing

Catholic Women Now

Listen to Julie Nelson and Chris Magruder discuss the issues that matter in women's lives today. This charming podcast is in conversational format. It is excellent company!

Listen
Walking on Holy Ground: A Lenten Journey

Worth Reading

Walking on Holy Ground: A Lenten Journey

Take a look at Mercy Partners' Lenten Moments: Walking on Holy Ground for the Fourth Sunday of Lent, in 2024.

Read
Holy Week From The Archives

Worth Playing

Holy Week From The Archives

Listen to Holy Week from the archives of Jesuits Ireland. May the miracle of the Resurrection fill your heart with hope, peace, and joy this Easter.

Listen
A Perspective on Faith

Worth Reading

A Perspective on Faith

Read Professor Steven P. Millies robust opinion piece for the National Catholic Reporter on the meaning of faith.

Read
The Debate on Assisted Dying

Worth Reading

The Debate on Assisted Dying

Read Simon Caldwell's excellent article from the Catholic Herald on the public debate on assisted dying and the insights gained from campaigns in Canada and Australia.

Read
The Benedictine Apothecary Of The Pope's Collections

Worth Watching

The Benedictine Apothecary Of The Pope's Collections

Watch this fascinating short documentary from the Vatican Museum on the monastery of Santa Cecilia in Trastevere, in Rome, and the ancient apothecary knowledge of the Benedictine nuns.

Watch
Catholics and Co-ops

Worth Watching

Catholics and Co-ops

Watch Kevin Moynihan's fascinating documentary about the story of how Roman Catholicism opened its doors to a radical economic model and how people of faith have worked to build a more just and sustainable society.

Watch

Mercy eNews

The newsletter of Mercy International Association is published monthly and distributed to subscribers via email. If you have any queries about the newsletter, please contact mercyenews@mercyinternational.ie

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