The Sisters of Mer
cy have been in Orpington for over a century.
In 1827, two years before Catholic Emancipation was granted, Catherine McAuley, herself no stranger to poverty, opened a house for the relief of the poor, in Baggot St, Dublin. Her programme of social service included child care, teaching, visitation of the sick, shelter and training for unemployed girls, but not the establishment of a Religious Congregation.
God decreed otherwise, and on 12th December 1831 Catherine became the Foundress of the largest religious Congregation ever established by an English-speaking Catholic.
At her death, 11th November 1841, her associates numbered 140, 13 branches (2 of which were in England) had been sent out, and her Rule had been approved in Rome.
See link to pdf for a full history and photos of the convent .....Sisters of Mercy
Currently there are three sisters, all of whom are Irish, aged above 50, living in the convent in Bishop Butt Close, just around the corner from Holy Innocents'.
They are active in our Parish in prayer and other capacities including visiting the sick and housebound and in the Consolation Group.
Their order is active in Kenya, Peru, England and Wales
One important task is the operation of a clinic and school in Kenya. Sister Vincent Finnerty is responsible for them and receives support from the Orpington Sisters of Mercy.
The life of the Sisters is especially prayerful with private prayers made individually each morning and night, as well as communal prayers at 8.00 am and 5.30 pm.
Tel: 01689 832999
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Sister Joseph RIP Died 3rd February 2011
See link to PDF report .....Requiem Mass