Governance in Action – September 2025

Mount Alvernia College Board Formation

10 September 2025, Brisbane

On Wednesday, 10 September, Mercy Partners Board Formation Consultant Christine Clarke led a formation session with the Mount Alvernia College Board, focused on “In Communion with God and One Another: Synodality in Practice.” Mercy Partners Board Director Cath Bartolo also participated in the session.

The session explored key themes, including:

• The mission and ministries of Mercy Partners and the Catholic Church within their global context
• Synodality as a practice of deep listening and prayer
• The concept of “Enlarge the place of our tent”
• Spiritual conversation as a tool for governance
• Pathways for living synodally into the future

The formation session provided an opportunity for directors to engage in dialogue, listen to one another, and reflect on their leadership roles in guiding Mount Alvernia in its mission and values.

Installation of Archbishop-Designate Shane Mackinlay

11 September 2025, Brisbane

On Thursday, 11 September 2025, Dr Ricki Jeffery, Chair of Mercy Partners, had the honour of attending the solemn and historic liturgical ceremony marking the installation of Archbishop-Designate Shane Mackinlay as the seventh Archbishop of Brisbane.

The event, held at the Cathedral of St Stephen, brought together members of the clergy, religious communities, civic leaders, and representatives from across the Archdiocese to witness and celebrate this significant moment in the life of the Church in Brisbane.

Ricki’s presence at the installation reflected Mercy Partners’ ongoing commitment to supporting leadership within the Catholic tradition and its close relationship with the Archdiocese.

St Patrick’s College Day of Celebration

17 September 2025, Townsville

On Wednesday, 17 September 2025, Mercy Partners Chair Dr Ricki Jeffery, College Board Liaison Prof Lee Anne Perry, and CEO John Leahy were warmly welcomed to Townsville to join in a day of celebration with the College community.

The day began with a joyful Mercy Day Mass, commemorating the founding of the First House of Mercy in Dublin in 1827 by Catherine McAuley, the visionary founder of the Sisters of Mercy. This annual celebration honours the enduring legacy of mercy, compassion, and service that continues to shape the College’s mission and values.

A highlight of the Mass was the Commissioning of the College’s new Principal, Ms Kathleen Little, who commenced in the role earlier this year. Her commissioning marked a significant moment for the College, affirming her leadership and commitment to Catholic education.

The College also bid a heartfelt farewell to Sr Helen Mary Peters, who stepped down as College Chair in June. As the last Sister actively involved in the governance of the College, Sr Helen Mary’s departure marked the end of an era. In recognition of this transition, the Sisters of Mercy made a special presentation to the College, symbolising the conclusion of their formal role while celebrating the deep and lasting impact of their presence and ministry.

St Patrick’s College Mercy Partners Ministry Board Induction

17 September 2025, Townville

The St Patrick’s College Board and Principal recently came together for a dedicated induction session designed to deepen their understanding of the mission and governance framework of Mercy Partners.

This gathering provided a valuable opportunity to explore the unique responsibilities of serving as a ministry Board Director, with particular emphasis on both canonical obligations within the Church and civil governance responsibilities under Australian law. The session strengthened the leadership team’s insight into their role in stewarding the College’s Catholic identity and mission, while ensuring sound governance and accountability.

The induction session was led by Dr Ricki Jeffery, Chair of Mercy Partners, alongside CEO John Leahy, and was supported by Professor Lee Anne Perry, the Mercy Partners Board Liaison for the College. Together, they guided participants through a comprehensive overview of governance within a Catholic ministry context, reinforcing the importance of informed and faithful leadership..

2025 All Hallows’ School Mercy Day Mass

19 September 2025, Brisbane

Each year, the All Hallows’ School community gathers in prayer and celebration to honour the Feast of Our Lady of Mercy, joining with Mercy communities around the world to commemorate the enduring charism of Catherine McAuley and the profound legacy of the Sisters of Mercy.

This special occasion, known as Mercy Day, is a time for reflection, gratitude, and recommitment to the values of compassion, justice, and service that lie at the heart of the Mercy tradition. Through liturgy, storytelling, and community engagement, students and staff were invited to deepen their connection to the Mercy story and its relevance in today’s world.

Kieran McCarthy, Mercy Partners Board Liaison for All Hallows’ School, was honoured to attend the Mercy Day Mass, joining the school community in prayer and reflection.

Mount Alvernia College Feast Day Mass

19 September 2025, Brisbane

Each year, Mount Alvernia College joyfully celebrates the Feast of the Stigmata of St Francis with a special Feast Day Mass, honouring the profound spiritual moment when St Francis of Assisi received the stigmata—marks symbolising his deep union with Christ’s suffering. The College takes its name from Mount La Verna (anglicised as Mount Alvernia), the sacred site in Italy where this event is believed to have occurred.

This annual celebration is a cherished tradition that invites the College community to reflect on the life and legacy of St Francis, whose humility, compassion, and unwavering commitment to service continue to inspire the values and culture of the College. His example serves as a guiding light for students and staff, encouraging lives of simplicity, empathy, and faith.

Professor Lee Anne Perry, Mercy Partners Board Liaison for Mount Alvernia College, was honoured to join the community for this significant occasion.

Our Lady of Mercy College Graduation Day Celebrations

26 September 20025, Parramatta

The Our Lady of Mercy College community recently gathered for a heartfelt Graduation Mass and celebratory lunch to honour the journey of the Year 12 students as they prepare to conclude their time at the College. The event was a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the students’ growth, achievements, and the values they have embraced throughout their education.

The graduating class proudly embodied what it means to be a Mercy Girl—demonstrating courage, compassion, and resilience in both their academic pursuits and personal development. Their final year was marked by leadership, service, and a deep commitment to the Mercy ethos that will continue to guide them beyond the College gates.

Jon Anderson, Mercy Partners Board Liaison for Our Lady of Mercy College, was delighted to join the celebrations.