Gratitude

By María del Mar Peydro, Mercy Education Board of Directors

Gratitude was the first word that came to mind when I thought about the Mercy charism.

Gratitude, above all, to my parents, who chose Santa Ethnea School (a Mercy school in the Province of Buenos Aires, Argentina), to partner with them in my education. Something that struck them at that time was the openness of mind and heart with which they were welcomed—something uncommon for religious schools in those days. That choice was the gateway to this charism that has been a part of me since childhood, and in which I continue to evolve throughout my life, growing and immersing myself in Catherine McAuley’s legacy.

Gratitude to the Sisters of Mercy who passed on the mark of Mercy to us. Although we did not hear of Catherine when we were young, we saw her spirit embodied in the Sisters who followed in her footsteps in Argentina. They educated us not only with their knowledge, but especially through their joyful, committed, and available way of life, particularly in difficult circumstances. There were very hard times in our country when the Sisters, faithful to the Gospel, stood by the most vulnerable and needy, passed on to us the core values of human dignity and how to act accordingly. Even today, though few, they remain a courageous presence in realities few dare to face. I cannot fail to highlight the trust they have always placed in the laity, working side by side with them—even entrusting the school’s leadership to us when they deemed it appropriate.

Gratitude to my husband, who from the very beginning embraced the charism as the foundation of his spirituality for the freedom and courage he found in it. It was so much so that before I introduced him to my parents, it was the Sisters who gave their “approval,” and this has become a funny anecdote in my family. Gratitude to my children, Mercy alumni, who adhere through their life choices to what it means to be Mercy.

Gratitude to my school classmates and friends who, more than 50 years after graduation, continue to carry on the seal of Mercy, seeking opportunities not only for social gatherings, but also to address current needs.

Gratitude to Santa Ethnea’s entire community, which, over the course of nearly 100 years and with all its ups and downs, has devoted itself daily to making the Kingdom of God visible, and educates with joy, freedom, commitment, and Mercy. It is a place where every day it is ensured that everyone feels welcomed and loved just as they are. It is a living community that shares in the joys and sorrows of those who are part of it.

Gratitude to Mercy Education for teaching me that the circle of Mercy is real and effective. That it transcends geographical location, vastly different cultures, and diverse realities. The possibility for me to continue to witness that there are so many people who are passionate about the charism and who put their talents at the service of our schools gives me tremendous hope for the future. The new generations will continue to take on the challenges that arise to create a more just and humane world where everyone has a place.

Gratitude to Catherine McAuley, who, from her native Ireland, with her tender courage, left us profound footsteps to follow. She showed us that to move forward, we need not take giant strides, but rather small steps with an awareness of how to look upon our fellow human beings with compassionate eyes. She did not leave us with grand speculations, but rather a model of approachable leadership based on good humor, honoring the autonomy of her companions and being firm when necessary. She found in every person the face of Jesus, for whom she was willing to give her life, even if this meant accepting circumstances she did not desire, as she recognized that in this way she could be faithful to the call that burned in her heart.

And infinite gratitude to the God of Mercy -“by whom alone we move forward or stay back”—who drew Catherine to Him with His call, and who continues to summon and invite us to live the Gospel through this thrilling charism, so that we may be shining lamps in a world often shrouded in darkness.