Formation is an intentional, ongoing, and reflective process focused on furthering God’s mission through Mercy Wellsprings. It ensures that the ministries governed by Mercy Wellsprings and its Boards remain faithful to the Gospel, to the charism of Mercy and to the spirit of Catherine McAuley.
During the first 6 months of 2025, Mercy Wellsprings hosted several Formation sessions with our Members, Board, and the Boards of our sponsored ministries. Led by Dr. Anne Walsh, Formation Consultant, the sessions focused on the first module of our Formation document—centered on the story of Catherine McAuley and the founding of the Sisters of Mercy. This foundational story reminds us why we are united in service to mercy and the mission of our sponsored ministries.
Module 1: The Story of Catherine McAuley
The story of Catherine McAuley is explored, her life and the events that led to her founding the Sisters of Mercy. We have gathered many to do this module together and to reflect on the story of Catherine McAuley.
Module 2: Early Expansion
News of the work that Catherine McAuley and her Sisters of Mercy were doing spread rapidly. Consequently, Catherine received many calls for assistance. The foundations of Sisters of Mercy which occurred in Catherine’s lifetime are reviewed.
Module 3: The Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy
The traditional corporal and spiritual Works of Mercy, their scriptural foundations and their conventional and contemporary manifestations are reviewed and reflected on.
Module 4: The 8th Work of Mercy
The 8th Work of Mercy proposed by Pope Francis in 2016 is explored. The module reviews how the Cry of the Earth invariably becomes intertwined with the Cry of the Poor.
Module 5: Sisters of Mercy of Newfoundland
The establishment of Congregation of the Sisters of Mercy of Newfoundland is explored, tracing its history from the various original foundations located in Ireland and Rhode Island. The ministries of the Sisters and those who work alongside them today are also reviewed.
Module 6: Sisters of Mercy of Newfoundland Ministries
The various ministries in which Sisters of Mercy of Newfoundland and the wider Mercy family are involved are reviewed, focusing on the call to the common mission of mercy which brings us all together.
Module 7: The Wider Mercy Family & Mercy Values
The wider Mercy Family to which Sisters of Mercy of Newfoundland and Mercy Wellsprings belong are reviewed. There is a brief look at some ministries and international initiatives, focusing on the common mission that brings everyone together.
Participants have been asked to self-study Modules 2–7. Later in the year, we will schedule additional time to reflect on the learnings and insights gained. The Formation Program will continue to grow and evolve as we hold more sessions and incorporate feedback from key stakeholders.
