The Mount Mercy Academy Class of 2024 recently had an opportunity to attend a mass with seniors from other Catholic schools. The special liturgy, presided by Michael W. Fisher, Bishop of Buffalo, was held at St. Joseph’s Cathedral.
Additionally, members of the Class of 2024 received the Mercy Pin, which is given to the members of the senior class so that they may carry on the mission of the Sisters of Mercy and to help them understand that often in life there are sacrifices that everyone must make.
During the 13th century, King James of Aragon gave the Religious Order “Our Lady of Mercy” his own “Coat of Arms” as a badge to recognize the great work done by the Royal Military and by Our Lady of Mercy Religious order when releasing the slaves. Since then, Our Lady Mercy has been frequently represented with the badge shared by King James, which became universally recognized as the symbol of Mercy. In 1828 Catherine McAuley chose “Sisters of Mercy” as the name for her new religious community. She also chose this shield because of its symbolism to Mercy. The gold background is a symbol of God’s mercy, the five bars signify the letters M-E-R-C-Y, and the cross is a reminder of sacrifice.