Called and Challenged: Today at Mercy International Centre

Editor: It has been another marvellous day at MIC for those present and those present online.

The theme of the morning prayer: 'Mercy Around the World: Our Global Reality' was most apt for today's experiences.

We heard first from His Excellency Dominick Chilcott, The British Ambassador to Ireland. Mary Reynolds rsm read to the assembly  from His Excellency's message of ' the admiration of the British government and people to Mercy International... for your past service and for the service you continue to provide in your mission in Britain and throughout the world...'

This was a very fitting introduction to the ritual which was prepared and led by Sisters from the 3 British congregations: Institute, Union and Federation and which embraced our global reality of the works of Mercy through visual imagery sourced from each of the congregations. We expressed our confidence in the God of Mercy as we prayed for all who serve Mercy and all in need of mercy. The ritual concluded with the playing of the Circle of Mercy on the violin by Ailish O'Brien rsm (The Congregation). Not surprisingly, the assembly once more rose to its feet 'dancing, singing, circling'.

Honoured guests at today's celebration were the Australian Ambassador, Dr Ruth Adler and Thomas E. Griffith, representing the American Embassy. Both speakers impressed and engaged the assembly with their knowledge and insights into the Mercy presence in their countries.

It was with great anticipation that we awaited the arrival and address to us by the President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins who was invited to first open 'The face of Mercy Today' Photographic Exhibition in the International Room. He was accompanied by Sabina Higgins. His words when he addressed us were challenging, encouraging and inspiring for he invited us ' to re-invent and re-imagine, to open new chapters, embrace change and advance innovation...'. Not surprisingly, he received a standing ovation.

We invite and encourage those unable to be present this morning to listen to the President's address, to take the time to do so.  It is now archived here on mercyworld.org

Images from the Presidential visit feature in the carousel on the homepage of mercyworld, as well as in this item.

Messages to: Mary Reynolds rsm - Executive Director MIA

Image: L-r: Margaret Casey rsm, Director of Board of MIA, Mary Reynolds rsm, Executive Director MIA welcome  President Michael D. Higgins and Sabina Higgins to Baggot Street.