News & Events

Laudato Si' Week is the annual celebration to commemorate the publishing of the encyclical (letter). It is held globally from 24-31 May and in Australia from 16-24 May to allow for full celebration of National Sorry Day (May 26) and National Reconciliation Week (May 27-June 3).

Mercy Sisters Parramatta, in our Chapter Statements of 2016 and 2023 have emphasised our commitment to "care of earth, care of the poor and care of each other " (2023), "to enjoy and celebrate Earth’s beauty and bounty", to "love and care for [Earth], to "live simply, in a way that takes into account the fragility of Mother Earth" and to "make practical efforts to stem the hurtful effects of climate change, pollution and the ‘throw away’ mentality." (2016).

In highlighting the importance of caring for our shared home and the need for a spirituality of love and respect for all creation, Mercy Sisters Parramatta reflect the themes of Laudato Si' and demonstrate our responsibility, personally and communally, for taking care of the world we live in and for sharing all the wonders and resources the earth gives us.

National Reconciliation Week is a time for Australians to learn about our nation's shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how to contribute to reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The theme for 2025 is "Bridging Now to Next". This theme calls on all Australians to step forward together, to look ahead and continue the push forward as past lessons guide us.

Sisters of Mercy Parramatta Congrgation are committed to reconciliation  with First Nations peoples, proclaiming in our 2016 Chapter Statement:

"We will open our hearts to the cries of the poor using our energies, gifts and resources to address violence and discrimination especially for women and children, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People..."

Reconciliation Australia provides resources and lists events to enable participation in Reconciliation Week. Find out details here

Pope Leo's first words were of peace. In our world where conflicts, crises and disagreements are so prevalent and economic and social inequalities are pressing issues, his words of peace and justice, building bridges, engaging in dialogue, working together and welcoming all, offer hope to a world in need of hope.

• Read Pope Leo's words in full here
• Join us in praying for Pope Leo. You may like to post your prayer or reflection in our prayer space.

133 Cardinals will enter the Sistine Chapel today, Wednesday, 7 May,  to begin the process of electing the next Pope. There will be one vote today then 4 votes each day until the Pope is elected with a two thirds majority of votes.

The Sisters of Mercy Parramatta Congregation join with the global Catholic community and all people of goodwill, in prayer and reflection for the election of the next Pope. We offer our support to the Cardinal electors and pray that they be wise in their discernment, open in heart and mind to the workings of the Holy Spirit.

Post your prayer or reflection in our sacred space.