Lauralton celebrates Mercy Day

Posted on Sep 27, 2010

Mercy Day is an observance that Lauralton shares with all other Sister of Mercy institutions and ministries. Historically, Mercy Day recalls the opening of the House of Mercy in Dublin, Ireland, on September 24, 1827. This establishment realized Catherine McAuley’s dream of creating a place where the poor, especially women and young girls, would find safe lodging and instruction in their faith and in skills that would lead to honorable employment. This work at the House of Mercy led Catherine McAuley to establish the Sisters of Mercy in1831.

Liturgically, Mercy Day marks the feast of Mary under her title as Our Lady of Mercy. Because her “settlement house” opened on this feast, Catherine McAuley favored the name “House of Mercy.” It was a fortuitous circumstance that subsequently led to the name of the religious congregation she founded there ��" the Sisters of Mercy.

In celebrating Mercy Day as the foundational feast of Sister of Mercy initiators and sponsors, Lauralton Hall highlights values central to her Mercy heritage. Hospitality extended to and by Sisters associated with the school is a part of each Mercy Day celebration. In honor of this year’s special day, on September 24 the entire Lauralton community attended mass presided over by Auxiliary Bishop Peter Rosazza. Following mass, students and staff enjoyed lunch together outside on the grounds of the campus.