‘There are things that the poor prize more highly than gold, though they cost the donor nothing; among these are the kind word, the gentle, compassionate look and the patient hearing of their sorrows’.  (Catherine McAuley)

Painting of “The Visitation” by Sr. Aloysius McVeigh R.I.P.

Visitation or visiting people in their homes or in hospitals was at the core of Sisters’ involvement with people, long before they had any specific role in parishes. That was very much in the tradition of Catherine McAuley who, with the first Sisters of Mercy, walked the streets and lanes of Dublin to tend to the needs of the sick and destitute poor.

Today, in Derry, Sisters continue this Mercy tradition of visiting those who are sick at home or in hospital. They visit the many people who are depressed, suicidal, or lonely. They support families who are coping with the loss of family members through various tragedies. Sisters also visit older people in their homes to assist them regarding access to welfare benefits or to offer other information which will empower them to help themselves.