In the wake of a poignant moment, a call to action arose within the hearts of dedicated individuals committed to preserving the legacy of the Sisters of Mercy.
This impassioned plea, articulated by Holy Cross College Principal Julie Hornby, to Sr Joanne Dickson developed into what is now known as ‘Our Mercy Exchange.’
The culmination of months of heartfelt discussions and collaborative efforts, resulted in the ‘Mercy Exchange’ which was held on the 19 January 2024, at St Brigid’s College, Lesmurdie, and stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Mercy, the commitment to ensuring that the story of the Sisters of Mercy here in Western Australia is remembered and that the Mercy flame is carried forward.
The genesis of the Mercy Exchange can be traced back to a gathering of like-minded individuals, including Siobhan Allen, Executive Director, Catholic School Parents WA; Ben Bull, Senior Team Leader Religious Education, CEWA and former Head of Religious Education at HCC Ellenbrook; Melissa Cartner, Head of Religious Education, HCC Ellenbrook and former Director of Mission at Mercy College, Koondoola; Veronica Parker, Principal, St Brigid’s Lesmurdie; and Mary Retel, Board Chair, Mazenod College, Lesmurdie, former Director on the Mercy Education Limited Board, the first lay Principal of St Brigid’s – Lesmurdie, and former Deputy Director of CEWA.
This dedicated group, with a shared vision of sustaining and living the Mercy legacy, sought to capture the essence of the Mercy sisters and create a platform for ongoing exchange.
The Sisters of Mercy that were present were pivotal in the exchange process by sharing their stories.
The Mercy story, beginning with the inspirational Catherine McAuley is well captured and will continue to ignite the hearts and minds of all those who have been touched by Mercy. Whilst committed to ensuring the Mercy Charism continues to be enhanced and reflected upon, there is also the shared vision of capturing the personal stories of the Sisters of Mercy who served so faithfully and courageously all over the state of Western Australia.
The Mercy Exchange was a convergence of approximately 50 Sisters of Mercy and friends of Mercy many of whom came from Catholic Colleges as well as from Catholic Education Western Australia (CEWA).
The afternoon unfolded as a time of reflection, celebration, and communal discernment.
Hosted by St Brigid’s College, Lesmurdie, and sponsored by Holy Cross College, Ellenbrook, and St Brigid’s College, the event marked a significant milestone in the journey of those committed to ensuring that the Mercy story in WA is captured and recorded.
The day commenced with a warm mercy welcome, introductions, and an acknowledgment of country, setting the tone for a day filled with grace and camaraderie.
An inspirational liturgy focused on the Mercy Charism followed, featuring a beautiful rendition of Catherine’s Suscipe by Bella Gethin, a year 12 student from Holy Cross College.
The liturgy, a harmonious blend of tradition and contemporary expression, served as a poignant opening to the subsequent table conversations.
The heart of the Mercy Exchange lay in the open, engaging, discerning, and fruitful table conversations centred around the Mercy Charism and legacy.
One of the main highlights was the number of Sisters of Mercy who came to share their stories and their insights.
There were also participants from diverse roles such as teachers, mission and faith directors, principals, librarians, administrators, executive directors, consultants, and religious educators who listened avidly to the Sisters and engaged in meaningful dialogues.
The atmosphere was filled with the spirit of mercy, warmth, and joy, fostering a sense of belonging and kinship that many affectionately referred to as ‘our Mercy family.’
Reflecting on the event, there was a unanimous sentiment that the Mercy Charism is not only alive but flourishing in the communities represented.
The enduring impact of the Sisters of Mercy, who first arrived in West Australia in 1846, was evident in the Christ-centred education based on Mercy values that continues to thrive today.
As the Mercy Exchange unfolded, a call to action emerged – an invitation for all to take part in this unique opportunity to engage in rich conversations with the Sisters who could join in person.
A call to share the legacy and ongoing story of Mercy with each other, ensuring that the flame ignited by Ursula Frayne and her companions continues to illuminate the path for generations to come.
In the tapestry of time, the Mercy Exchange of 2024 stands as a pivotal moment, weaving the threads of past, present, and future into a vibrant tableau of Mercy’s enduring legacy.