Our Lady of Sion College Transition Ritual
13 August 2025, Melbourne
On Wednesday, 13 August, the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion hosted a deeply meaningful transition ritual to commemorate a pivotal moment in the history of Our Lady of Sion College. This ceremony marked the formal transfer of governance from the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion to Mercy Partners Limited.
The event was both solemn and celebratory, reflecting the rich legacy of the Sisters and their enduring commitment to education and faith. It served as a moment of reflection on the College’s journey under the stewardship of the Sisters, while also embracing a new chapter guided by Mercy Partners.
This transition signifies not only a change in governance but also a continuation of the values and mission that have shaped the College community for generations.
St Ursula’s College Board Formation
16 August 2025, Yeppoon
On Saturday, 16 August 2025, Mercy Partners Chair Ricki Jeffery participated in the St Ursula’s College Board Training Day, where she led a Formation conversation centred on the theme of God’s Mercy.
Drawing inspiration from the Mercy Partners mission statement and Theological Framework, the session invited board members to reflect deeply on the meaning and expression of mercy in their governance roles. Through guided discussion and shared insights, participants explored how the Presentation charism can shape leadership, decision-making, and the culture of the College community.
AMPJP AGM, Dinner and Forum
17-18 August 2025, Cairns
The Association of Ministerial Public Juridic Persons (PJPs) convened in Cairns for their Annual General Meeting, Dinner, and Forum—a key event in the calendar for Canonical Stewards and Executive Officers across Australia. This inclusive gathering provides a valuable opportunity for those involved in the governance of Ministerial PJPs to come together for formation, dialogue, and collaboration.
The event featured sessions focused on spiritual and professional formation, updates on current issues affecting PJPs, and open forums for Canonical Stewards to share insights, challenges, and experiences from their respective ministries. It fostered a spirit of collegiality and mutual support, reinforcing the shared mission and values that underpin the work of Ministerial PJPs.
Representing Mercy Partners at the gathering were Chair Dr Ricki Jeffery and Board Director Cath Parker, who participated in the AGM, Dinner, and Forum. Their presence reflected Mercy Partners’ ongoing commitment to active engagement within the broader PJP community and its dedication to collaborative leadership in Catholic ministry.
National Catholic Education Conference
20-22 August 2025, Cairns
Lee Anne Perry, Mercy Partners Board Director and Chair of the Education Collaboration Committee, recently represented Mercy Partners at the 2025 Australian Catholic Education Conference held in Cairns.
The conference, themed “Hope, Anchored in Faith,” brought together Catholic education leaders from across the country to explore the strategic direction and shared mission of Catholic education. The program was structured around three foundational pillars: Faith, Excellence, and Access. The program also recognised the important role the National Catholic Education Commission plays in shaping education policy nationwide.
Attendees engaged with a rich and diverse array of keynote addresses, panel discussions, and interactive workshops. Topics spanned Catholic identity and mission, leadership and governance, learning and teaching, parent and parish engagement, community partnerships, infrastructure planning, advocacy, and marketing—each contributing to a holistic vision for the future of Catholic education in Australia.
The conference was informative, engaging, and deeply inspiring, offering valuable insights and renewed energy for those working in Catholic education governance and collaboration.
Celebrating Sr Angela Mary’s 100th Birthday
23 August 2025, Brisbane
On 23 August 2025, the Board of Mercy Partners were invited by the Right Honourable the Lord Mayor Councillor Adrian Schrinner and The Lady Mayoress Mrs Nina Schrinner to join in the celebrations of Sr Angela Mary Doyle rsm AO 100th birthday.
Sister Angela Mary Doyle is one of Queensland’s most respected leaders, nationally recognised for her pioneering role in hospital administration and her fearless advocacy for people living with HIV/AIDS.
After arriving in Brisbane from Ireland in 1947, she trained as a nurse and later became Administrator of the Mater public hospitals, serving for 21 years during a period of significant growth and transformation. Her leadership was marked by courage and compassion, especially during the HIV/AIDS crisis, when she challenged stigma and fought for dignity and care.
Beyond her administrative role, Sister Angela Mary continued to shape the Mater’s future through fundraising, governance, and the establishment of Mater Research. Her advocacy extended to broader social justice issues, including healthcare equity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Her contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including the Order of Australia, Queenslander of the Year, and induction into the Queensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame.
Sister Angela Mary Doyle remains a powerful example of visionary leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice.
Lunch with the Undersecretary of the Vatican Synod of Bishops
27 August 2025, Brisbane
The Board of Mercy Partners recently had the privilege of attending the Brisbane Catholic Professionals luncheon, where they were honoured to hear from Sr Nathalie Becquart XMCJ, Undersecretary of the General Secretariat of the Synod of Bishops.
Sr Nathalie is a trailblazer in the Catholic Church, known for her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to synodality. As the first woman to be granted voting rights in the Synod of Bishops and now serving in a senior leadership role within the Vatican, she is helping to shape a more inclusive, participatory, and listening Church.
With a distinguished background in theology, sociology, and entrepreneurship, Sr Nathalie brings a unique and dynamic perspective to conversations about leadership, discernment, and the future of the Church. Her address was both inspiring and thought-provoking, encouraging all present to reflect deeply on the role of collaboration and co-responsibility in faith communities.
The Mercy Partners Board greatly valued the opportunity to engage with Sr Nathalie’s insights and presence. Her message resonated strongly with the mission and values of Mercy Partners, challenging all in attendance to imagine new possibilities for shared leadership and spiritual renewal within the Church.
Principal Recruitment Underway at Our Lady of Sion College
August 2025, Melbourne
Following the recent announcement of the resignation of Principal Tina Aspostolopoulos from Our Lady of Sion College in Melbourne, the Mercy Partners Guideline for the Appointment of a Principal has been enacted with Lee Anne Perry, being the appointed Mercy Partners representative on the recruitment and selection committee.
Lee Anne Perry brings a wealth of experience in educational leadership and governance and is actively engaged in the recruitment and selection process for the College’s new Principal. Her involvement ensures continuity and alignment with the mission and values of Mercy Partners during this important transition.
