Mercy Day 2024 Celebrating Faith and Community- Jennifer Oaten
Mercy Day is more than just a tradition—it is a day that brings our community together to celebrate our shared values and heritage. This year, Mercy Day 2024, was particularly special, filled with joy, reflection, and a renewed commitment to the spirit of Catherine McAuley, the founder of the Sisters of Mercy.
Today, we remember especially the foundress of the Sisters of Mercy, Catherine McAuley, who used her talents in the service of others. As a young Irish woman, she saw that many of the people in Dublin were poor. Children required education, and poor women needed shelter and training. Her vision was to make a difference in the lives of these people.  Â
When Catherine inherited approximately $3 million on the death of her adoptive parents, she pursued her vision. She used her fortune to build a large house named the ‘House of Mercy’ in Baggot Street, a fashionable part of Dublin, where poor children could be educated and poor women provided with shelter and training.Â
A Day Grounded In Faith and Unity
Our Mercy Day began with a beautiful Mass, where students, staff, and our much-loved Sisters of Mercy came together for a shared time of spirituality and unity. The Mass served as a powerful reminder of our Mercy values, particularly Hospitality, our Mercy Value for 2024.
It was a reflective experience that strengthened the bonds within our community, reaffirming our commitment to living out these values.
Celebrating the McAuley Shield
One of the day’s highlights was the much-anticipated announcement of the McAuley Shield, awarded to the House, which has demonstrated outstanding participation, spirit, and commitment throughout the year. This year, the cheering and celebrations echoed across the College grounds as the winning House was announced, reflecting the pride and unity our House system fosters among our students. Congratulations, O’Reilly House.
Honouring Our Year 12s
For our Year 12 students, Mercy Day 2024 was particularly meaningful as their final College event before graduation. As Year 12s, they are acknowledged by the whole College Community through presentations of Colours and through each Year 12 House group.
Watching them lead the day’s activities with energy, enthusiasm, and gratitude was truly inspiring. Their leadership and commitment to our Mercy values have set a remarkable example for all of us. As they prepare for new adventures beyond Santa Maria College, we are confident they will carry the spirit of Mercy with them wherever they go.
Mercy Day Stalls - Fun, Fundraising and Community Spirit
The day continued with the vibrant and much-loved Mercy Day stalls. Our students showcased their creativity and initiative with stalls filled with delicious treats, handmade crafts, and engaging activities. These stalls were a testament to our community spirit and care for the most vulnerable in our community, with all proceeds supporting Mercy Works, a cause close to our hearts. This effort embodies the true meaning of Mercy—giving back to those in need and making a positive impact on our world.
A Day to Remember
The day continued with the vibrant and much-loved Mercy Day stalls. Our students showcased their creativity and initiative with stalls filled with delicious treats, handmade crafts, and engaging activities. These stalls were a testament to our community spirit and care for the most vulnerable in our community, with all proceeds supporting Mercy Works, a cause close to our hearts. This effort embodies the true meaning of Mercy—giving back to those in need and making a positive impact on our world.
Carrying the Spirit of Mercy Forward
Mercy Day is more than just an event; it is a reminder of who we are and what we stand for. It offers a chance to reflect on our shared values and recommit to living them every day. We are deeply grateful to everyone—students, staff, and families—who contributed to making this year’s Mercy Day so memorable.
As we look forward, let us continue to carry the spirit of Mercy in all that we do. Thank you to the Santa Maria College community for making Mercy Day 2024 a day to remember.
- Catherine McAuley, Faith and Community, Featured, McAuley Shield, Mercy Works Fundraising, MercyDay, Santa Maria College, Sisters of Mercy
Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.
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In the October edition of the Old Girls’ Association Blog, we feature alumni Mercy Award finalists Diann Black and Libby Wilkes, catch up with Gabby Blyth as Head of Admissions, and share exciting reunion news. Plus, get ready for the upcoming Golden Girls’ Luncheon, a celebration of those who graduated 50 years ago.
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Elizabeth Wilkes (1984) has been part of the Santa Maria College community for nearly 50 years. From her time as a student to her contributions to the Parent Network and College Advisory Council, Libby exemplifies leadership, service, and hospitality. As a Mercy Award finalist, she shares how this recognition resonates with her deeply held values.
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Gabby Blyth (Chaffer, 1999) returns to Santa Maria College as our new Head of Admissions. Her lifelong connection to the school, extensive career experience, and passion for community make her an incredible addition to our team. Discover Gabby’s inspiring journey from student to staff.
