The Mercy Associates of the parish of St. James the Less in Perris, CA, USA, began as a small group of four in 2005, under the direction of Sr. Eileen Rafferty.  There are currently 15 active associates, with 6 more joining in 2013. There are relatively few associate groups in our Diocese, and the associates here in Perris feel very blessed, and enriched, by and through the opportunity and privilege to be united with the Sisters of Mercy in their spirit, practice, and dedication towards the poor and the less fortunate in our midst.

Interested individuals, both men and women, spend 1 – 2 years to learn and discern the Mercy philosophy, history, and practices. The life, experiences, writings, prayer life, and the boundless spirit and determination of Catherine McAuley, Foundress of the Sisters of Mercy, are explored. Through prayer, study and discussion, small groups (4 – 7) learn, grow, and develop a personal spirit of mercy and unity with one another and the larger group of our currently active associates. New associates are “commissioned” at a Saturday evening parish Mass, making public profession of commitment to Mercy practices.

Associates meet monthly at either the Mercy convent or private homes, for the opportunity to pray, share, and study together in a prayerful, peaceful, and congenial atmosphere. Catherine McAuley’s practice of taking tea and light refreshments in the gathering room is practiced. We pray with and for one another, and share special requests for personal or social needs. We also share our joys and blessings. Through this time of sharing, caring, and praying with, and for, one another, strong bonds of friendship and genuine care, concern, and love for one another have developed. We have “broadened our awareness” to the call of concern for one another in God’s kingdom through our prayer and praise experiences together. We have experienced varied forms of prayer, including guided meditations, contemplative prayer, and centering prayer practices.

Within our meeting time, we also spend some time in group study. We read, discuss, and discern topics/issues which are applicable to our daily lives. Through these studies and discussions, we are learning to broaden our awareness and ability to extend and apply the Mercy attitude and spirit throughout our personal life experiences. As Associates, we strive to live our lives in a way that reflects our Mercy commitments. One goal is that our lives should mirror our commitments and be recognizable in our homes, neighborhoods, and workplaces. Our Mercy association should “enhance our lives.” (Dee)

One of our associates (Robin) recently shared that at her workplace, several other employees have asked her to lead them in a Christian prayer group (on site, outside of business hours). During this time, they reflect, pray for one another, and pray about peaceful, blessed solutions to some internal work-related and/or personal problems, issues, and circumstances.

Above:  Mercy Associates L to R:  Linda Steffer (writer) and Linda Ogden

Following one of the readings we shared together, another associate (Mary) shared that she began to recognize how important it is to take the time and energy for some “pruning” within her life. Within that “pruning” experience, a re-allocation of time, a simplification of routines, and a diminishment in some former priorities are being worked on.

Several of our Mercy associates have committed to working in our community food pantry. They participate in a variety of ways, serving as shoppers, clerks, packers, and distributors. Some work “behind the scenes” in their commitment, while others work in their chosen area(s) one or two times each week on an ongoing basis. My participation has made me “more aware of the on-going needs in my community, and has shown me the gratefulness of the homeless for our care and concern” (Lindalee). Several other associates, not being able to actively work within our pantry parameters, support this outreach effort through their prayers, and/or financial contributions.

Members have expressed that their participation in the Mercy Associates has been a wonderful learning, and growing experience. It has “created an awareness of need around us” (Margie). It has “expanded our desire to help others” (Linda).  Our time together has “brought us closer to one another within the group” (Claudia). As members of this ministry, we each look forward to the time we share together. Praying and sharing together creates renewal within us. “I feel renewed after every meeting and more ready to continue on in my practice of service and drawing closer to God” (Margie).

The question was asked: Have we “caught” the Mercy spirit? The answer appears to be: Yes, and we hope that it is “contagious”!

Linda Steffer
Mercy Associate
US Province