Gracious and ever-living God, on this sacred anniversary of the opening of Catherine McAuley’s first House of Mercy on Baggot Street, we give thanks for the light that first burned there two hundred years ago – a light of welcome, compassion and courageous love.
As we honour Catherine’s vision, open our hearts to the same daring trust in Your Providence that moved her to respond to the needs of her time:
to shelter the vulnerable,
to lift the burdened,
to teach with patience and tenderness,
and to heal with reverence for every human dignity.
Strengthen in us the spirit of Mercy – bold in service, steadfast in justice, joyful in hope and ever-ready to accompany those who stand at the edges of society.
Amen.
