FROM THE DEAN OF FAITH & MISSION

A sincere and warm welcome back to everyone. As we return to routine, we do so with gratitude, compassion and care for one another.

To the new families joining our College community, welcome. It is a privilege to serve you once again as Dean of Faith & Mission in 2026, and to walk together in the Mercy tradition that calls us to respond with courage, hospitality and love.

Our first week was jam-packed with many events, one of which was extra special as our Year 7 and Year 12 students took part in the Investiture Assembly. Our Sister of Mercy, Sr Helen Mary Peters blessed their badges and the College community was officially introduced to our new Red Door. Our Red Door reflects the enduring spirit of Mercy that welcomes all with dignity, love and compassion. It honours the legacy of Catherine McAuley and the place where her vision first took shape – Baggot Street’s House of Mercy. In a time when bringing the poor and vulnerable into an affluent neighbourhood was seen as bold and unsettling, Catherine’s open door stood as a quiet act of defiance and radical hospitality. From that courageous beginning, a ministry of care and service grew, reaching hearts and communities across generations.

We begin this year with renewed energy and a shared sense of purpose, and 2026 promises to be a meaningful year of faith, service and mission. Guided by the Mercy call to act justly and stand in solidarity with those most in need, we are introducing the Caritas Long Walk for Water as part of Project Compassion. Our young women are encouraged to register via the Caritas website. Our Mercy Girls in Action will be making pancakes for Shrove Tuesday on Tuesday 17 February and all funds raised will go towards Caritas Project Compassion.

Students who feel called to deepen their Lenten journey through service and reflection are warmly invited to speak with me or with Brooklyne Stegman, our Faith & Mission Prefect. The Lenten season begins on Ash Wednesday where will come together in prayer and reflection at our Ash Wednesday Liturgy.

Finally, we are delighted that Loreto Home Visits will return in 2026, continuing the relationships of compassion and presence that bring the Mercy charism to life through genuine encounter and service.

Prayer for a New Year in the Spirit of Mercy

Loving God,
as we begin this new year, we place ourselves in your care.
Thank you for the year that has been,
and for your faithful presence in all its moments.

Shape our hearts in the way of Mercy.
Help us to notice those in need,
to listen with compassion,
and to respond with courage and kindness.

Like Catherine McAuley,
may we trust in your providence
and allow mercy to guide our choices and actions.

Bless this year ahead –
our work, our relationships, and our hopes.
May all we do reflect your mercy,
so that your love may be made visible through us.

Amen.

I look forward to working with you all and meeting new families at some point throughout this year.

With gratitude and Mercy,

Elissa Andrews

DEAN OF FAITH & MISSION