Beneath the bell tower of Our Lady of Mercy College, Parramatta, a story unfolds. It is a story of faith education and the enduring legacy of the Sisters of Mercy. Founded in 1889 the college stands as a testament to their vision.
Imagine stepping back in time. Picture a group of determined Mercy sisters arriving from Callan Ireland. They traveled far. Cardinal Moran had invited them to establish a Catholic school for girls in Parramatta. Their goal was ambitious. They wanted to empower young women through education.
Our Lady of Mercy College opened its doors in January 1889. Mother M. Alacoque Kavanagh became the founding Principal. Initially seven high school students attended. The college quickly expanded. Within two years a building extension addressed Villiers Street.
The curriculum at Our Lady of Mercy College was diverse. It included English Latin and modern languages. Students also studied mathematics singing and drawing. Needlework and woodcarving added further breadth.
In 1892 Our Lady of Mercy College accepted its first boarder. By 1899 a new wing accommodated the growing number of students. The college became one of the first schools registered under the Tate Langdon Act in 1913. This act emphasized exam preparation.
Dorrie Murphy played a crucial role in the college’s history. In 1922 she persuaded Mother Francis Kearney to establish an Ex-Students Association. This association fostered friendships. It also raised funds for the Sisters of Mercy’s charitable work. Dorrie even penned the words to the school song “The Alma Mater”.
Expansion continued at Our Lady of Mercy College. A new building erected in 1929 accommodated 150 boarders and 200-day pupils. This building was named “The Brigid Shelley Building”. Further construction occurred over the years including the “Francis Kearney Building” and the “Catherine McAuley Library and Hall”.
The primary school closed in 1955. The boarding school closed at the end of 1974. These closures allowed Our Lady of Mercy College to update its facilities. The Wyndham Scheme also necessitated changes.
In 1996 tragedy struck. An arsonist set fire to Saint Patrick’s Cathedral and then Our Lady of Mercy College. Fortunately the fire was discovered quickly minimizing damage.
Our Lady of Mercy College transitioned to new leadership in 2002. The college became incorporated and a Board of Directors appointed. Geraldine Star became the first chair. Kitty Guerin was appointed the eighth principal in 2004.
A new building opened in 2010. It was named after Sister Janet Woods a former principal and science teacher. The Janet Woods Building provided facilities for science food technology and hospitality.
Today Our Lady of Mercy College continues to thrive. It educates approximately 1030 students from Year 7 to Year 12. The college remains committed to the Mercy tradition and the values of Catherine McAuley. These values include mercy compassion and justice.
As you stand here remember the legacy of Our Lady of Mercy College. It is a legacy of empowering young women providing them with a foundation for success. The college’s motto “Sub tuum praesidium” meaning “Under Your Protection” encapsulates its mission. The Sisters of Mercy provided more than just an education. They offered a safe space for young women to grow.