Ricordia: The Integration of the Critical Concerns of the Sisters of Mercy in the Lives of MMA Students

By Valentina Tartaglini '29

Merion Mercy Academy is a high school not only led by principled leadership but a strong emphasis on service. Founded in 1884 by the Sisters of Mercy,  the institution has modeled the efforts of Catherine McAuley in educating young women with an open-minded, holistic approach. It is because of this that our service program focuses on the Sisters' Critical Concerns: Women, Earth, Nonviolence, Antiracism and Immigration. Citing that they believe in the “prayerful consideration of the needs of our time,” Mercy girls are encouraged to think about the world around them.

Among these concerns, Women is perhaps the nearest to the hearts of Mercy girls. As a single-sex school, students are able to reflect on the perseverance of women in previous generations. The value is truly emphasized in a quote from Catherine McAuley, “No work of charity can be more productive of good to society than the careful instruction of women.” Over the past year, juniors at Merion Mercy Academy led an initiative called “Access to Education for Young Women in Afghanistan” in their Praxis project, a key part of their social justice leadership course. In efforts that focus on the marginalized, poor, and under-resourced, Merion Mercy Academy challenges young women to have empathy for others.

In addition, the Sisters of Mercy have addressed Nonviolence, emphasizing the importance of a peaceful community. In recent times, they have focused on the uprise in political violence. Earlier in September, they wrote an article about the school shooting at Annunciation School in Minnesota. Saying that “our response can no longer be thoughts and prayers,” they are calling for action. The Sisters of Mercy have been part of multiple initiatives, including Nuns against Guns. They also led a video competition in 2023 that allowed students to submit videos on the impact of gun violence. Merion Mercy Academy’s juniors participated in this competition. The efforts of the Sisters of Mercy truly show their dedication to peace on earth and good will to mankind.

Speaking of Earth, the Sisters of Mercy have placed a high emphasis on a healthy planet. In an article called “Responding to Climate Change through a Lens,” they have vowed to become “net zero” by 2045. Additionally, they have listed tips on how to keep the earth clean, citing gardening, reducing plastic, food choices, energy conservation, sustainability, shopping and composting as worthy actions. Students at Merion Mercy Academy have also shown their concern, with  persisting initiatives. Their “Friends of Wissahickon” service group allows students to take part in trail-cleanups throughout the year. Also, the Environmental Club engages students in learning about “protection, conservation, preservation, and restoration, with an emphasis on educating and empowering students.” Additionally, an article called “Concern for the Earth” details how “cosmic thinking invites us to focus not just on the human characters in this story but also on our neighbors: the animals, the trees, air, water, stars,” further proving how all beings are part of the Circle of Mercy. 

Immigration has been frequently discussed by the Sisters of Mercy, especially in recent times. On their website, they pledged their “solidarity with immigrants, refugees, and victims of human trafficking.” There is also a list of resources for the immigrant community, including a “Know Your Rights Card.” Rising seniors at Merion Mercy Academy tackled this issue over the summer, taking part in a program called Arise. They journeyed to McAllen, Texas near the Mexican border, where they enjoyed “working, playing with the children, and engaging with other McAllen-based student volunteers.” In addition, multiple Merion Mercy Academy students attended the “Conference of Mercy Student Leaders,” where the topic was discussed. 

Finally, the Sisters of Mercy are also rooted in challenging discrimination, focusing on Antiracism as a Critical Concern. According to their website, they are determined in “eliminating personal and institutional racism and dismantling oppressive structures.” Merion Mercy Academy has celebrated equality in the past and partakes in an “MLK Jr. Day of Service” each year to remember the Civil Rights leader. Merion Mercy Academy is dedicated to ensuring that all voices are heard, reflecting their Core Value of “A Voice for Dignity and Respect.” 

In conclusion, the Sisters of Mercy have both inspired and led MMA students to be active members in our society and tackle complex issues. Their bravery as well as determination has allowed the school to flourish. Merion Mercy Academy’s student body has truly been impacted by the intentional social justice leadership professed by them. Their diligence can be summed up by a quote from Catherine McAuley, “We should be shining lamps, giving light to all around us.”