Healthcare

Catherine McAuley generated in her Sisters a deep concern for the sick and dying poor, for those at risk in society, and for the needs of the people around her. This concern engages us in the compassionate care of the sick, manifesting to them Christ's healing love' Para 43, Constitutions of the Sisters of Mercy of Ireland.

Mercy and healthcare have gone hand-in-hand since the first Sisters of Mercy began tending the sick in Dublin in the 1800s. Catherine's wisdom continues to inspire Mercy sisters today to dedicate their lives to the compassionate care of the sick. There are sisters working in hospitals and hospices, in nursing and residential homes, in community healthcare and caring for the sick and infirm in Mercy communities. Some work in the area of supporting carers who have sick relatives, others in the setting up and running of healthcare programmes. Some sisters are involved in complimentary medicine/therapies such as reflexology, massage, reiki and biodanza.
Sisters who are qualified social workers and Liason workers are involved in the community, in homes, health centres and with disadvantaged groups throughout the Province. Other sisters help in day care centres, where the elderly come for meals, health care and to meet and socialise with people from their area.

Healthcare Chaplaincy

The Healthcare Chaplain is an integral member of the healthcare team. The Chaplain is available to provide objective crisis intervention and competent spiritual support in the often stressful and demanding healthcare environment. The Chaplain is an understanding friend and confidante when a patient or relative is faced with illness and crisis, and people often draw closer to their spiritual side when faced with life changing news. Chaplains provide an important service in a healthcare environment as they work to support the spiritual needs of patients, family members and care team members alike. Chaplains are available at all times of the day or night for concerns or prayer, listening and clarifying. Offering the resources of faith are an important part of a chaplains ministry.

Back to Our Work