Thank you so much for your continued prayers, concern and offers of assistance for the people of Haiti. We pray for all those who have died, especially Archbishop Miot who died in the earthquake. We pray, too, for all those who have been so devastated by the recent events.
On Thursday, January 21, the Mercy community joined together to pray for our sisters and brothers in Haiti. Campus minister, Ms. Ann Derbacher, along with the peer ministers, planned prayer services which were held throughout the day. Students, faculty and staff members gathered to pray for those living in despair. The spirit of Mercy emanated from the chapel.
The Mercy community surrounded itself with mementos and images which symbolize the bond between Mercy and Foyer des Filles de Dieu, the orphanage Mercy faithfully supports. On display in chapel, was a crucifix which was a gift from the orphanage, and a small album created by the girls from the orphanage. This album, filled with pages of colorfully traced handprints and signatures, was created in 2002 when the covenant between the institutions was signed. The original handprints of the girls represent the true and concrete relationship these girls share. The images brought to life the young women of Haiti.
At the end of the service all joined hands and prayed the Hail Mary. Even though we could not physically hold the hands of our sisters and brothers in need, their hands were definitely present and will continue to be held tightly by all members of Mercy High School.
In addition to the prayer services on Thursday, the Mercy community also rallied together to raise money for the orphanage. Through the combined effort of students, faculty, parents, staff, alumnae and extended members of the community collections exceeded $26,000 in this one day. Monies are still flowing in and of course are always welcome.
Mercy’s efforts and commitment are not only touching the individuals directly involved in our community, but are also being commended at different levels. Radio station NPR addressed Mercy’s twinning program with our Haitian orphanage. The comradeship was mentioned as an example of how people can reach out and establish relationships with those in need no matter how far or near. Updates on Port au Prince and other Norwich diocesan ministries are available at http://haitianministries.org/.
Thank you for your ongoing support and for responding so faithfully in Mercy!
Sr. Mary
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