Order merges into one

The Sisters of Mercy have approved a new organizational structure that will unite six separate regional communities across the Northeast into one community.

It will be known as the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas-Northeast Community, or "Mercy Northeast."

Mercy Northeast unites 1,400-plus Sisters of Mercy, Mercy Associates and Companions in Mercy from Albany, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Portland, Providence, R.I., and Vermont.

More than 500 sisters met in Manchester, N.H., recently to approve the change. In March, they will vote for a new leadership team. The team will take office July 1, when the new community officially begins.

Sister Kay Graber, president of the Sisters of Mercy in Albany, said, "It is my belief that we are gaining new hope and new energy, new approaches and different perspectives, new and better use of resources, and a larger group to carry the mission of Mercy forward."

The order believes the restructuring will enable the community to use its human and financial resources more efficiently for the Mercy mission. The order will continue to minister in the areas of education, healthcare, and social and pastoral services.

The Sisters of Mercy were founded by Catherine McAuley in Ireland in 1831. Frances Warde established the order in the United States in 1843.

Responding to the changing needs of those they serve, the order has modified its operating structure many times over the years. The latest change follows three years of conversation, collaboration and planning.

(Among other ministries in the Albany Diocese, the Sisters of Mercy sponsor Maria College, McAuley Living Services and St. Peter's Healthcare Services, all in Albany, and Circles of Mercy in Rensselaer.)

(11/24/05) [[In-content Ad]]