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Catherine McAuley, RSM (29 September 1778 – 11 November 1841) was an Irish Catholic religious sister who founded the Sisters of Mercy in 1831. The women’s congregation has always been associated with teaching, especially in Ireland, where the sisters taught Catholics (and at times Protestants) at a time when education was mainly reserved for members of the established Church of Ireland.
Catherine McAuley died of tuberculosis on 11 November 1841 at Baggot Street, at the age of sixty-three. At the time of her death, there were 100 Sisters of Mercy in ten foundations.
Shortly thereafter, small groups of sisters left Ireland to establish new foundations on the east and west coasts of the United States, in Newfoundland, Australia, New Zealand, and Argentina.
Total worldwide membership consists of about 5,500 Sisters of Mercy, 5,000 Associates, and close to half a million partners in ministry. The Mercy International Centre in Dublin, Ireland, is the international “home” of Mercy worldwide and the mercyworld.org website is the virtual home.
Sister Catherine McAuley was an Irish Catholic nun who established the Sisters of Mercy in Dublin in 1831. The order was founded with the mission of providing education and assistance to those in need, particularly focusing on the education of girls and the care of the sick and impoverished.
The Sisters of Mercy quickly expanded their work, opening schools, orphanages, and hospitals, and offering support and care to the marginalized and underserved in Irish society. The order’s commitment to social justice, education, and healthcare left a lasting legacy, and the Sisters of Mercy continue to work in various countries around the world.
Sister Catherine McAuley’s dedication to the welfare and education of those in need has earned her recognition and admiration for her contributions to Catholic education and charitable work.
Beatified 1990
She was beatified by the Catholic Church in 1990, an important step toward possible canonization as a saint.
Sisters of Mercy:
The Sisters of Mercy is a Roman Catholic religious institute of women founded by Catherine McAuley in Dublin, Ireland, in 1831. The order’s mission is rooted in the Catholic faith and is centered around serving those in need, particularly the poor, sick, and uneducated. The Sisters of Mercy have played a significant role in education, healthcare, and social services, both in Ireland and internationally.
Founder: The order was founded by Catherine McAuley, an Irish Catholic woman who used her inheritance to establish the Sisters of Mercy and provide education and care for the poor and vulnerable.
Education: The Sisters of Mercy have a strong tradition in education, particularly the education of girls. They founded schools and academies to provide quality education to young women.
Healthcare: The order has a long history of involvement in healthcare and has established hospitals, clinics, and nursing facilities. They are known for their commitment to providing compassionate care to the sick and needy.
Social Services: The Sisters of Mercy are also involved in various social services, including working with marginalized and underserved populations, offering support to those in need, and advocating for social justice.
International Presence: The order expanded internationally, establishing convents and missions in countries around the world. They continue to serve in various capacities in different countries.
Core Values: The Sisters of Mercy are guided by core values such as compassion, service, hospitality, and a commitment to social justice, which are derived from their Catholic faith.