The first in St Mary’s, as we arrived we experienced what we have come to know as ‘a warm Mercy welcome’ with everything beautifully prepared and ‘a comfortable cup of tea’.

In St. John’s Wood everything had been beautifully prepared for us, but the previous evening the hall was broken into, and the destruction that happens through such actions was evident. Nonetheless two Mercy Associates (Hilda and Jeanette) managed to smile and welcome us through their disappointment, and the ‘comfortable cup of tea had to be put ‘on hold’ for a short time, until keys and resources could be located. Somehow the consequences of destruction did not triumph. As the Sisters and Associates began to arrive the whole atmosphere changed, and we experienced that same spirit of ‘union and shared vision’ in both

Sr. Philomena Bowers (Congregational Leader of the Union of the Sisters of Mercy) addressed both groups. ‘Care for Our Common Home’ was the theme, and as she spoke she inspired us to think and reflect anew on how we can work in partnership, and individually, caring for every aspect of Creation.

She reminded us of the beauty and complexity of the earth we share, and through thought-provoking slides, powerfully, that the greatest natural resource is the Human Person. ‘Laudato Si’ (Encyclical of Pope Francis) was brought to life for us. The Pope encourages us to have a profound love for all of Creation in all its facets. He challenges us to reflect on how we personally use, and are responsible for the resources at our disposal.