Throughout the world Mercy Day is celebrated on 24 September — the Feast of Our Lady of Mercy. It is the anniversary of the opening of the first 'House of Mercy' in 1827 in Dublin, Ireland. Catherine McAuley, founder of the Sisters of Mercy, devoted her life to the poor, sick and uneducated, and today we continue her legacy of caring and compassion in the name of Mercy.
Traditionally, we celebrate Mercy Day at the end of Term 3 and despite being in lockdown we were able to recognise this important event on Friday 17 September. The day began with students gathering in their Homeroom groups to participate in an online liturgy prepared by the Year 12 CSYMA class and an address by the Principal, Mr Philip Morison. The liturgy, based on the theme 'We are people of Mercy', reflected not only on the story and legacy of Catherine but also on the ways in which we, as a community have lived Mercy throughout the year. Year levels and Homeroom groups were also given the opportunity to 'get into the spirit of the event' by dressing up according to various themes such as, footy colours, Homeroom colours and fancy dress. Some of our Year 12 Homerooms are pictured.
It is usual that we support Mercy Works through fundraising at this time so a website was set up for those who were able to donate. Through the generosity of students, staff and families we have raised just over $4000. Mercy Works will put this money to good use as they support projects in Papua New Guinea, Timor Leste, the Philippines and Australia. Their key areas of expenditure are health, education, social welfare and community development.
Thank you all for your generous donations.
