Inspired by Faith: Sophomore Class Engages in Conversations in the Spirit

On March 28, Merion Mercy Academy’s sophomore class participated in a special Theology department event featuring Joely McMullen, a first-year student at Saint Joseph’s University and an SJU Synodal Fellow.

As a Synodal Fellow, McMullen teaches about synodality—the concept of "journeying together"—and facilitates Conversations in the Spirit, a practice rooted in deep listening and meaningful dialogue. Last October, she traveled to Rome as part of the Catholic Education Network to Engage Rome and Synodality (CENTERS), a delegation representing 14 Catholic colleges and universities across the U.S. During the trip, she explored the meaning and impact of the Synod, a worldwide gathering of bishops and Church leaders who come together to discuss matters of faith, practice, and the future of the Church.

“Joely’s presentation and the student-led Conversations in the Spirit directly support our sophomore curriculum on the Catholic Church in a Changing World,” shared Mrs. Rule, Theology teacher and department chair. “This experience deepened our students’ understanding of contemporary Church dynamics.”

Merion Mercy was also pleased to welcome alumna Diane Duffy Hankee ’88, a current parent (P’27) and SJU Campus Minister and Liturgical Coordinator, who played a key role in planning and facilitating the event.