Spiritual Life
Spiritual Growth
“We may perceive from all our instructions that a strong and lively faith is the solid foundation of all virtue.” – Foundress Catherine McAuley
Inspired by Faith is one of our Core Values at Merion Mercy. As an independent, Catholic, college preparatory school, we have the privilege of guiding your daughter on her personal spiritual journey for a precious four years. She arrives at MMA at a unique moment in her life—she may be a curious seeker, or may hold deeply rooted beliefs. All are welcome to learn and to grow in a nurturing environment that values and responds to the distinct spiritual development of each student.
We know that your daughter's relationship with God will guide her life choices and be a source of steady strength and wisdom throughout her life. Our approach works to ensure that each student knows that she is made in the image and likeness of her God who loves her unconditionally. A Merion girl will know herself, believe in herself, and trust her instincts, and will encounter others warmly with a sense of welcome hospitality, eager to learn their stories and open to sharing her own.
Celebrating God Together
As a Catholic community of faith, our students, faculty, and staff worship together by participating in prayer services and celebrating the Eucharist. We begin each day in prayer led by Campus Ministry student leaders. During our Monthly Reset, students and faculty gather for scripture readings, prayers for intercession and personal reflections.
We celebrate Holy Days of Obligation, Mercy Day, Thanksgiving, Advent, Christmas, Respect Life, Ash Wednesday, Ring Mass, Baccalaureate, and Alumnae Reunions in the beautiful Convent Chapel adjacent to the Convent of Mercy.
Liturgies at Merion are true celebrations! Vibrant and spirited, they are usually accompanied by our Liturgical Ensemble, and they often include liturgical dance, performed by the Dance Troupe. We mark all important school milestones with a Eucharistic Liturgy, like the Junior Ring Mass and Baccalaureate Mass.
Kairos Retreat
During junior or senior year, most of our students participate in a Kairos retreat. The Greek word “Kairos” means “God’s time.” The retreat provides each participant an opportunity to “step away” from life’s busy pace for a three day/two night experience to focus on her inner life in relationship to herself, others, and God. The process evokes positive personal growth and spiritual empowerment.
School Chapel
Our school chapel is a haven of peace for all who wish to spend time in the Presence of the Blessed Sacrament. It’s here that First Friday Mass is celebrated each month, certain Theology classes gather, and other faith-based events occur.
Mission, Ministry, and Belonging
Ministry is integral to our school’s identity: all that we do is in service of the Gospel. Our Catholic identity and Mercy tradition are promoted through leadership, collaboration, and programs that foster an inclusive school culture rooted in the Gospel and in the spirit of Catherine McAuley.
Sister Danielle Gagnon, RSM, ensures that Merion Mercy Academy’s mission permeates all aspects of school life.
Student Ministry Team
The Ministry Team is a leadership and service organization within the school community, supervised by the Campus Ministry Office. Team members learn to prepare liturgical celebrations, plan prayer services, class retreats, and facilitate these events while developing and using collaborative leadership skills.
Ministry Team members serve as student ambassadors at school sponsored events and take what they have learned and experienced at MMA beyond their time here to serve their churches and colleges.
Sister Mandy Carrier, RSM, Campus Minister, welcomes our girls to participate on the Ministry Team and encourages student leadership within our prayerful Mercy community.
"The Ministry Team has helped open a window that has allowed me to learn more about my faith, which is the most important thing to me, while teaching me to lead my sisters through the faith." —Bronwyn Scherf '25