On Wednesday 15th July, the Sisters of Mercy in Hillingdon celebrated 100 years of Mercy presence. Gathered in the grounds of St Raphael’s Convent in Hillingdon were past pupils and local school children. They were joined by Sisters of Mercy of the Federation, the Chigwell Sisters, staff and parishioners.
The outdoor Mass was concelebrated by Bishop James Curry a ‘Mercy boy’ and local Hillingdon Parish Priest Fr Matthew, Five Hayes Claretian Fathers – Fr John, Chris, Paul, Paul Peter and Christov as well as Fr Gabriel from the Birmingham Diocese -also part of the wider Mercy family. The sun made enough of an appearance to make it very pleasant, and the Mass was thoughtfully arranged by Sisters Johanna and Annette from the Leadership team. Each Sister from the community, along with the Headteacher from St Bernadette’s School and the House Manager, had a role in the Offertory, which reflected on different aspects of the story of the Sisters in Hillingdon – A suitcase to remember all the Sisters who came to St Raphael’s for a rest, a Bell which hung outside the original Chapel and was rung to call the community to prayer, a basket of fruit and vegetables reminding us of all the produce grown on the convent grounds in years gone by, an old photograph of St Bernadette’s school which was started by Sisters of Mercy, a Chalice in memory of all the masses offered by Claretian Fathers since the foundation of the convent 100 years ago. Mass ended with a recessional hymn sung by the children of St Bernadette’s School. The new statue of our Lady which was donated by the Mercy Union Congregation and the Centenary garden was then blessed by the Bishop.
Mass was followed by an outdoor luncheon in a beautiful marquee on the convent lawn – all laid out to signify the special occasion. With a beautiful celebration cake made by Sister Bridget Collins. Guests heard a wonderful summary of the history of the Mercy story in Hillingdon read by Congregational Archivist Jenny Smith, before grace was said by the Bishop. This was a perfect setting for lots of connection, reconnection, and heartfelt reminiscing.
Thank you to all involved in the preparation for and smooth running of the big day, with a special thanks to the Sisters of St Raphael’s, Alison the community Manager and her family.
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