Sisters of Mercy - Thanksgiving Mass

On Monday 16th May, Bishop Mark Edwards concelebrated a Thanksgiving Mass at Sacred Heart, North Albury, with Fr Martin Cruikshank, Fr John McGarth, Fr Paul Hart and Fr Bernie Thomas to recognise the ministry of the Sisters of Mercy in the Diocese of Wagga Wagga. Representatives from across the Diocese were present to acknowledge their contribution across the areas of education, healthcare and parish pastoral ministry.

The Mass provided the opportunity to remember the many remarkable women, both living and those no longer with us, who worked tirelessly and selflessly to make a positive difference in the lives of others and their contribution to the Diocese of Wagga Wagga, particularly in education.

Mr Le Brocque represented Marian Catholic College and Belinda Aventi contributed to the music for the mass, playing alongside other staff from around the Diocese.

This special occasion provided a great opportunity for those ex-MCC students present to obtain a photo with some of the Sisters of Mercy who have contributed to MCC over the years. Parents and friends may recognise some familiar faces from years ago!

Unfortunately, Sr Shirley Garland (Assistant Principal 1988-1991; Principal 1992-1994 - first Mercy Principal after the Marist Brothers ) was missing from this photo.

Back row - Belinda Aventi, Sr Gwen Garland (Assistant Principal 1981 - 1988), Sr Patricia Weekes, Michael Morrell, Sr Patricia Johnson, Heath Neville, Sr Therese Foley & Alan Le Brocque. Front Row - Loretta Zanotto, Sr Angela Jordan (Assistant Principal 1977 - 1980; Principal 1997-2001), Sr Rita Savage (Assistant Principal 1970-1974) & Sr Francis Fitzpatrick (Principal 1995-1996; 2002-2006).

Bishop Mark with the Sisters of Mercy who attended the thanksgiving mass. Sr Shirley Garland is in the middle row second from the right (next to Sr Angela Jordan).

Thank you, Lord, for the charism and work that the Sisters of Mercy have provided to the Diocese of Wagga Wagga. In particular, we thank them for the educational and spiritual leadership they offered to Catholic High School and Marian Catholic College in Griffith.

May their vision through the intercession of Catherine McAuley continue to challenge both staff and students of our College to do works of peace and to be a voice for justice. Amen.

Belinda Aventi