On Friday 23 October, Sacred Heart College came together to celebrate Mercy Day, marking the return of a College tradition we hope will continue to grow.

Celebrated by Mercy communities around the world on 24 September, Mercy Day commemorates Catherine McAuley’s opening of the first House of Mercy in Dublin in 1827. Almost 200 years later, her example continues to challenge us to put our Christian faith and Mercy values into action.

We were delighted to welcome Catherine Glenister, Board Member of Mercy Works and Manager of the Mercy Mission, Action and Spirituality Hub, who shared with us the important work of Mercy Works and its mission of ‘Walking Together. Changing Lives.’ Catherine spoke about how long-term partnerships and community-led projects support people to build skills, confidence and brighter futures.

From the relative comfort of our College here in Kyneton, it can sometimes be easy to feel disconnected from the poverty and injustices experienced by others. Yet our Mercy heritage challenges us never to turn a blind eye, but to open our hearts with compassion and respect. That same challenge applies to how we treat one another each day. Being our best as a Mercy community means showing respect, listening to others, extending hospitality to those around us and recognising that our words and actions matter.

Following our assembly, students and staff enjoyed an afternoon of food, fun and fundraising. Activities included House tug-of-war, sprint races, the three-point basketball challenge and Footy in a Bin, with plenty of friendly competition, teamwork and House spirit throughout the afternoon.

The day also marked an important leadership transition, as our incoming 2027 Senior Student Cabinet stepped into their roles following the departure of our Year 12 students. Alongside our 2026 Junior Cabinet and Sports Captains, they helped set up, organise and run the day’s activities. Their enthusiasm, initiative and pride in our College were a wonderful reflection of the remarkable young leaders they are becoming.

While we are still counting the proceeds, we are optimistic that we will be able to make a meaningful financial contribution to Mercy Works. Once we have the final numbers, we will share these with our community.

Our thanks to Catherine for joining us, to our student leaders and staff who organised and ran the day’s activities, and to our students, families and wider College community for their generosity in purchasing tickets, participating in activities and supporting our fundraising efforts.

Looking ahead to the 200th anniversary of Catherine’s first House of Mercy in 2027, we hope to build on this good beginning, making Mercy Day a lasting celebration of community, generosity and service, and a reminder that mercy is something we are called to put into action every day.

Saul Travers-Hucker & Haley Galloway