This year we were blessed with glorious spring weather for Mercy Day which we celebrated on Friday 13 September. Mercy Day is celebrated across the world on 24 September, which is the anniversary of the date on which Catherine McAuley established the House of Mercy in Baggot Street, Dublin in 1827. As this date falls during the school holidays, our celebration of Mercy day takes place on the second last Friday of the term.
The day commenced with an inspiring Liturgy of thanksgiving lead by the Year 10, 11 and 12 CSYMA students. Our focus was on thanksgiving for Mercy and the example of our foundress Catherine McAuley as well as our founders for each of our College Houses.
Students and staff busied themselves with the running of the various stalls and activities through the day including rides such as the cha cha, visiting the op-shop and participating in various competitions that added to the day's enjoyment and our fundraising efforts. CSYMA Ministry Lounge hosted an op-shop, bake sale and lucky jars stall. All items were donated or baked by volunteers. This has enabled 100% of the money raised to be given to Mercy Works. The stalls were run by the senior CSYMA classes. Well done to everyone involved.
Mercy Idol is another hugely popular event, with students stepping up and displaying their talents to earn points for their houses. There were many entertaining acts. Congratulations to First Show winner Erin Dean (Year 12 Green) and Second Show winner Georgia McAleer (Year 12 Orange) (pictured). Frayne House was the overall winner.
The Mercy Day Parade continues to draw big crowds. The Yellow Ribbon Ambassadors led the parade and reminded us of the importance of reaching out and asking ‘RU OK?’. There was stiff competition this year, with Year 12 White stealing the show with their Christmas theme, highlighting naughty and nice with a mischievous Grinch and Santa stirring things up. There was a tie for second place as Year 12 Blue celebrated everything that is ‘True Blue’ Aussie while 12 Red’s ‘Radio Rewind’ had us finding the beat. Third place winner was 12 Gold ‘Gym Junkies’, who certainly put enormous effort into its exercise regime. Our thanks to all our Year 12 students for this wonderfully entertaining parade.
So many people are involved in the running of Mercy Day at MLMC. It truly is a community endeavour by staff, students, parents, families and friends and we look forward to advising next term the final amount raised which will be handed over to Mercy Works.
