(Mercy Volunteer Corps volunteer, alums, and Sister Sue Gallagher celebrate Mercy Day in Philadelphia. Pictured left to right: Rachel Beilgard ’21, Aryanna Arrington ’24, Sister Sue Gallagher, Colleen Swanhart ’22, Jonathon Borja ’23)

A brief history of your relationship with MVC

In the late 1970’s I was missioned to East Norriton a few miles northwest of Philadelphia, PA. The first executive director of MVC (then Mercy Corps) was Sister Ellen Cavanaugh, RSM. Ellen and I lived in the same convent; I was aware that she was busy setting up MVC. At that time, although I wasn’t directly involved, I realized it was a mode of including folks in the works of Catherine and in the life the sisters were trying to extend by our life in mercy. I thought it was a “nice” idea.

Later, when I was a faculty member at Gwynedd Mercy University, I was asked to review some applications that came in for MVC. At that point I became very conscious of what the MVC experience could do for the participants and for the community of Mercy in the area. Most applicants seemed to have a sense of justice, and understood the importance of their spiritual life, life in community, and clearly expressed the desire to be of service.

The collaboration between Mercy Justice and Mercy Volunteers

A few years ago, a friend of mine, Sister Theresa Saetta, RSM, was the Mercy Connector to the Mercy Volunteers in the Philly area. As a Justice Team Member for the Institute, I was curious about their places of ministry and their concerns. As Terry explained the various aspects of their work, the connection to justice was so clear and I was reminded of the interest in justice people expressed in their applications. I asked Terry if I could accompany her on some visits. It was fun for me to extend the work of justice to MVC and the connection was so obvious. The Justice office was able to facilitate a trip to DC for a demonstration that Mercy was cosponsoring; that was always a highlight of their year’s activities.

When Terry moved out of state I volunteered to assume the role of Mercy Connector.

Living into Mercy as the Mercy Connector

The focus on justice is primary for me; it’s a focus for our MVC Volunteers, too. This happens in multiple ways, most importantly I desire that folks get to know Mercy and justice through our Sisters. It is always a delight to have our volunteers introduced at our Mercy Day Liturgy. I encourage the various communities in the area, we have several in Philly, to invite the Mercy Volunteers to dinner, prayer and conversation. Invariably the MVC folks enjoy these times, and, without a doubt, the sisters enjoy being with them. “We want to have them again” is a frequent response.

An aspect of my connection to the volunteers is getting to know them and gratitude for how they are spreading the spirit of Catherine McAuley. I am impressed, too, with how they care for each other. A huge benefit for me is my association with the staff members of MVC and their care for our participants. Working alongside members of the support team is an inspiration and a joy. My initial thought so many years ago, that is a “nice” idea has become the conscious knowledge that MVC is a gift to Mercy and growing in Mercy is a blessing for our dear Mercy Volunteer Corps members!

Sister Suzanne Gallagher, RSM: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania