A group of children from St Joseph’s Primary School, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne were invited by their Headteacher, Sr. Patricia Bell (formerly Sr. Michael) to reflect on the meaning of Mercy. The project motivated these youths to reach out to others, including them in the process, and in this way, they committed themselves to forming the first YMA Group with Tommy and Monica Mills acting as their Youth Leaders. The foundation began on 25th March 2000.
Mission Statement
The aim of the YMA is to follow in the footsteps of Christ so that we become active, caring members of the Mercy family, under the protection of Our Lady of Mercy.
The Maghull group at the 175th Anniversary in Westminster Cathedral
The Badge and Banner
Our Mercy badge and banner symbolise the Risen Christ who is the Light of the World.
The Mercy Cross is central, symbolising God’s Mercy flowing from Calvary.
A quote from Catherine McAuley highlights how important the Cross is, representative of the sacrifice Jesus made for humanity: “Without the Cross, the real crown cannot come.”
The badge and banner were designed by the North Shields YMA, which is representative of their outward commitment to follow in the footsteps of Christ, aided by the spirit of Catherine McAuley.
Youth Mercy Associates
The Youth Mercy Associate Groups provide a link between young people and the Mercy Congregation.
The Youth Mercy Associates wish to follow in the footsteps of Jesus …
- by upholding the Catherine McAuley vision of faith, joy and mercy.
- by praying, reflecting and sharing together.
- by letting God’s light shine through the sharing of their gifts and talents for others.
A Message Of Hope
The message of hope requires the individual to try and live their lives in the image of Catherine McAuley. This entails being:
- Caring
- Attentive
- Trusting
- Happy
- Energetic
- Responsive to need
- Independent
- Natural
And an Enlightened star ... as Catherine was.
Other About Links
