The MIRC

The Conference was planned and sponsored by the Mercy International Research Commission (MIRC), a group of Sisters of Mercy appointed by the MIA in 2004.  The members of the Commission are Elizabeth Davis (Newfoundland), Mary Lyons (Ireland), Sophie McGrath (Australia), Mary Noel Menezes (Guyana), Mary Sullivan (Americas), Elaine Wainwright (Australia), and Anne Hannon, ex officio (Vice Postulator of the Cause of Canonization of Catherine McAuley—Europe and Africa).

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At its August 2007 meeting the Board of Mercy International Association adopted the following statement of vision, quoted here in part:

God’s gracious and compassionate Mercy is the wellspring, the source of never failing supply, for all those who cherish and seek to live out this gift of Mercy.

Catherine McAuley, foundress of the Sisters of Mercy, used her inheritance in service of the needs of her time.  Today, Sisters of Mercy, through Mercy International Association, use their resources to respond to issues of global poverty demonstrated in the massive displacement of persons worldwide....

This vision keeps alive the founding spirit of Catherine among peoples of the world most in need of God’s compassion and mercy.

The MIA Vision Statement situated the theological reflections of the Research Conference in the global Mercy aspiration, and remains an inspiration in the ongoing efforts of  "Mercy - Kindling."