Mercy Associates are women and men who feel called to make a difference in the world in partnership with the Sisters of Mercy. Associates come from all walks of life and faith traditions. They embrace the Mercy commitment to justice and peace and join the Sisters of Mercy in working for systemic change. While maintaining their independent lifestyle, Associates share prayer, community and ministry and the gospel call to holiness with the Sisters of Mercy. They bring a compassionate heart to the marketplace and to those with whom they live and work. Associates share in community events, prayer and celebrations with the Sisters of Mercy but are not responsible for the Sisters or their ministries.

Becoming an associate involves making an application. Each candidate receives a mentor and support community for the orientation process that lasts a year. Through discussion and reflection on call, prayer, Catherine McAuley, social responsibility, church and the history of the community, the pre-Associate discerns if God is calling him/her to Mercy Association. At the conclusion of the orientation the individual makes a formal two-year commitment to prayer, community and ministry and receives the Associate pin.

Sue, who volunteers at a shelter for unwed mothers and recently began the orientation process, says, “I am so excited about starting on my path to becoming a Mercy Associate! This is exactly what I have been longing and praying for spiritually. I love knowing that I’ll be part of a large and wonderful community dedicated to helping women and children. I have always felt a calling for doing something to make a difference.”