The Sisters of Mercy have the distinction of being involved in the education of young girls in Waterford City for over one hundred and ten years.

This began with the establishment of a school on Phillip Street in 1900 and later the two Primary Schools on Military Road were built in 1965.

This year on September 24th – the Feast of Our Lady of Mercy – the transfer of the trusteeship of Our Lady of Mercy and Holy Family Primary Schools from the Sisters of Mercy Southern Province to the Diocese of Waterford & Lismore took place.

This was a very significant and indeed historic occasion and a special day was dedicated to the Mercy Sisters to thank them publicly for their years of devoted, selfless commitment to education in the city of Waterford.

Entrance Procession

The day began with a special concelebrated Mass held in Holy Family Church, Luke Wadding Street, at which the Bishop of Waterford, William Lee, was the Chief Celebrant.

This Mass was attended by members of the Mercy Congregation from Military Road, members of the Provincial Team, Sisters who taught in the schools in the past and Sisters who were themselves past pupils of the schools, members of the Boards of Management of both schools, representatives of the Parents Council, retired teachers and finally the present staff and pupils of the schools.

Assembled Congregation

A poignant procession at the beginning of Mass saw many symbols of Mercy brought to the altar and fifty three candles were held and placed on the altar by pupils from fifth and sixth class to signify each member of the Mercy Congregation who had been associated with the schools since 1900.

Beautiful singing throughout the Mass was provided by the school choir, and the symbolic transfer of the trusteeship was made following the Bishop’s Homily when Bishop Lee received a lighted candle from the members of the Provincial Team.

Bishop Lee received the candle from Sr. Maria Goretti Comerford

All Sisters present stood and recited a special prayer at the conclusion of Mass. This informal gathering allowed for renewal of friendships, reminiscences of times past and even afforded some the opportunity to wander the corridors of the school and remember bygone days. It was certainly a day of mixed emotions. As the last guest left the building – everyone knew that a very special link was now broken, but there was no doubt that the future of Mercy schools is in very safe hands.

There were some tears shed certainly, but there was also a feeling of great optimism and hope and all who were present on the day were touched by the dignity and poignancy of the occasion.

Brenda Greany rsm
Southern Province