Monday 11 November is unique to our community as it marks two profound commemorations: Remembrance Day and the Feast Day of Venerable Catherine McAuley. On this day, we honour those who have sacrificed for peace and freedom while also celebrating the life and legacy of Catherine McAuley, the founder of the Sisters of Mercy, who dedicated her life to God in living compassion, education, and service to others.
Remembrance Day invites us to pause, reflect, and pay tribute to the courage and sacrifice of men and women who served in times of war and conflict. Through prayer, silence, and tradition, we express gratitude and a collective hope for a peaceful future.
On the same day, Catherine McAuley's Feast Day reminds us of her unwavering commitment to society's most vulnerable. Her vision and faith gift us the values of Mercy, justice, and service that inspire and guide us today. As a Mercy community, we draw strength from her legacy, seeking to live out her mission of compassion in all that we do. So we pray…
Loving God,
Today, we remember those who sacrificed for a better world. May their bravery inspire us to be peacemakers in our communities and to build a world of justice and unity.
We also celebrate Catherine McAuley, who taught us the power of compassion and Mercy. Let her example guide us to care for those around us with open hearts and to bring hope wherever we go.
Give us the strength to live with kindness, honour the dignity of all, and be compassionate in our actions.
Amen.