Spirituality belongs to the realm of mystery. Mystics have shared revelations through the centuries in images and poetic language, but it remains forever shrouded in inexpressible silence. The women who commit their lives to invisible Presence can only speak of their call in hushed, hesitant murmurs; the One who calls does so shyly;  and truth, forever ancient, yet forever new, resides deep within the heart of all. God, the creative presence that guides our every moment, is the energy that guides Religious Life.

When Catherine founded the Sisters of Mercy, Religious Life was vastly different from what it is today. Monastic life with its restrictions were the norm, as the central focus was on union with God. Catherine’s desire was service of the poor and, it was only when thrust upon her, that she succumbed to the establishment of a religious order. For Catherine and her followers, ministry was to the fore. However, Catherine was always guided by God, through her rich prayer life. Prayer was the source of ministry in her view and speaking of the disposition needed in a Sister of Mercy, Catherine said: “It is bestowing ourselves most generously and relying with unhesitating confidence on the Providence of God.” (To Mary Ann Doyle, July 1841).

From their first appearance on Dublin streets, the Sisters of Mercy were known as the “walking nuns” as they played a large part in the development of Apostolic Religious Life. Traditional ministry had inherent dimensions of spirituality, from religion class on the school curriculum, to praying with an anxious soul during visits to households, to accompanying patients on the hospital ward. More recently, emerging ministries include:

Spiritual Companionship
Sisters are trained to meet people within their own circumstances, in an atmosphere of unconditional love, so that they might recognise more fully the touch of the divine in their lives.

Prayer Groups
Sisters participate in groups of different prayer forms from meditation to devotional forms of prayer.

Retreat Giving
More extensive time is dedicated to people, so that they might reflect on their lives.

Chaplaincy
Sisters are available to accompany people in hospital situations.

Contemplative Prayer
Sisters dedicate daily time periods to silent prayer to further the vision of God throughout creation.

Eco-Spirituality
A growing awareness of the Universe Story and Spirit permeating creation has led to many Sisters being involved in interfaith groups and services.

For more information on Galilee Spirituality Centre, please click here