Theme announced for the 200th anniversary of the first House of Mercy

In 2027, we will celebrate 200 years since Catherine McAuley founded the first House of Mercy on Baggot Street, Dublin.

We are delighted to announce the theme for Mercy Day 2026 and for the anniversary year: “Celebrating 200 Years of Catherine McAuley responding with mercy".

Our theme invites us to return to the moment when Catherine’s vision became a reality — and to reflect on how her response to the needs of her time continues to inspire us today.

Catherine was a laywoman when she opened the House of Mercy in 1827. She had a deep conviction that something must be done in response to the poverty, inequality and lack of educational opportunities experienced by so many, particularly women and children. Rather than simply noticing the needs around her, Catherine chose to respond with mercy.

The House of Mercy became a place of welcome, education, care and opportunity. From this small beginning on Baggot Street, Catherine’s vision would grow and eventually inspire the foundation of the Sisters of Mercy.

Two hundred years on, Catherine’s example continues to speak to us. Her story reminds us that mercy begins by seeing what is happening around us, listening to the needs of others and having the courage to respond.

As we mark this special anniversary, we celebrate Catherine not only for what she began, but for the spirit in which she lived: with compassion, courage, practical action and an unwavering belief in the dignity of every person.

“Celebrating 200 Years of Catherine McAuley responding with mercy” is both a celebration and an invitation. We honour Catherine’s response in 1827, while asking ourselves what it means for us to respond with mercy today.

The House of Mercy began with one woman responding to the needs she saw around her. Two hundred years later, the invitation remains the same: to see, to care, and to respond with mercy.

ENDS