Mercy Education
THE FOUNDATION OF WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE DO.
Founded by the Sisters of Mercy, learn about how we are continuously shaped by the life and lessons of Catherine McAuley, as well as the Core Values and Critical Concerns of the Sisters of Mercy.
Catherine McAuley
The Sisters of Mercy, sponsors of Assumption High School, trace their roots to Catherine McAuley, an Irish Catholic woman whose faith, courage, and vision transformed countless lives and continue to inspire Mercy ministries throughout the world.
Born in Dublin, Ireland, in 1778, Catherine lived during a time of widespread poverty and social inequality. Deeply moved by the struggles she witnessed, she believed that women could play an active role in addressing the needs of society. Rather than turning away from those who were poor, uneducated, or marginalized, Catherine devoted her life to serving them with compassion, dignity, and practical support.
Using a substantial inheritance she received, Catherine opened the first House of Mercy on Lower Baggot Street in Dublin on September 24, 1827. The House of Mercy provided shelter, education, and opportunities for women and girls who faced limited prospects and significant hardship. Catherine envisioned a place where individuals could find hope, learn skills, strengthen their faith, and build a better future. Her work quickly became known throughout Ireland for its effectiveness and its spirit of hospitality.
Originally, Catherine intended to gather a group of laywomen dedicated to serving those in need. Recognizing both the importance of her ministry and the need for its continuation, the Archbishop of Dublin encouraged her to establish a religious congregation. On December 12, 1831, Catherine and two companions professed their vows and became the first Sisters of Mercy.
The newly formed congregation grew rapidly. During the final decade of her life, Catherine established fourteen foundations throughout Ireland and England, extending the reach of the Mercy mission to schools, hospitals, and communities in need. Her approach was both compassionate and practical. She believed that true mercy meant responding to the most pressing needs of the time through education, healthcare, advocacy, service, and faith.
Catherine's legacy is not simply found in the institutions she founded, but in the spirit that continues to guide Mercy ministries today. Her belief in the transformative power of education remains especially important in Mercy schools around the world. She viewed education as a pathway to opportunity, empowerment, and human dignity, particularly for young women.
At Assumption High School, Catherine McAuley's vision remains at the heart of our mission. Her commitment to faith, compassion, justice, hospitality, and service challenges us to educate young women who are confident learners, compassionate leaders, and agents of positive change. Nearly 200 years after her death, Catherine McAuley's legacy continues to thrive. Her words, "Resolve to be good today, but better tomorrow," remind us that education, faith, and service can transform lives and help build a more just and compassionate world.
Critical Concerns of the Sisters of Mercy
The Sisters of Mercy were founded out of a deep concern for the needs of persons who are poor. Today, we focus our ministry on those needs identified through our “critical concerns.” We address these concerns through prayer; our own communal life as a religious congregation; education; advocacy with legislators and other leaders; and corporate engagement.
Read more about the Critical Concerns
Mercy Education Core Values
The Profile of the Graduate is how students come to manifest and embody Mercy Education’s Core Values. It’s the culmination of everything a student in Mercy Education hopes to achieve. Throughout the student’s journey, this blueprint defines the attributes they’re expected to acquire and the steps they’ll take to gain them. With the Profile of the Graduate, every experience and academic opportunity is linked to and aligned with Mercy Education’s Core Values.
Compelled by Mercy
Mercy students, in the spirit of our founder Catherine McAuley, are steadfastly determined to take Mercy into an interconnected world. Our shared sense of social consciousness is fortified by universal empathy and a conviction that all are worthy of God’s mercy. This deep awareness and compassion move us to take principled action and serve the needs of others.
Educational Courage
Mercy students welcome the challenge of pursuing their full potential in a culture of excellence, critical thinking, and curiosity. Their multifaceted journey builds character while it builds essential skills. Our holistic program expects engagement, a thirst for knowledge, and personal responsibility, while preparing students to thrive for a lifetime.
Inspired by Faith
Mercy students become living models of faith and forceful advocates for Gospel values. Grounded in our Catholic identity in the Mercy tradition, we welcome all faiths and are strengthened and shaped by these relationships. As we pursue a personal relationship with God, we strenuously follow Jesus Christ’s example of social justice, love and service.
Principled Leadership
Mercy students are poised to lead with their unique gifts. Prepared with an ethical and moral compass, we put Mercy values into action and work assertively for what is right. We’re equipped to make difficult choices, learn from our mistakes, and develop high emotional intelligence. As an international community, we’re confident in our ability to make a positive difference and push for systemic change.
A Voice for Dignity & Respect
Mercy students honor the intrinsic value of the individual and recognize God’s presence in each person. We embrace a global vision and value differences of opinion and are unafraid to confront hostile or hurtful attitudes. By standing up for those who can’t, we go beyond acceptance to help make sure everyone feels recognized and heard.
