International Women’s Day 2012: 8 March. Theme: Empower Women -End Hunger and Poverty

Catherine wrote ‘The principal aim of this congregation is to educate poor girls, to lodge and keep poor young women until they can provide for themselves in some suitable way, and to visit the sick poor.’ [Letter late 1833-early 1834]. Touched by God’s mercy and compassion and fired by the inspiration of the Gospel and Catherine McAuley, we give expression today to that same concern for women.

Catherine would certainly support the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day: Empower Women - End Hunger and Poverty.

In 1975, during International Women's Year, the United Nations began celebrating 8 March as International Women's Day.

The day is about celebrating the vital role women play in enhancing church and society,while recognising that significant barriers to achieving women's equality continue to exist. Let us join together as Mercy to make a difference, think globally and act locally, making every day International Women's Day to ensure that the future for women and girls is bright, equal, safe and rewarding.

Messages to: Mary Reynolds rsm - Executive director MIA