The Sisters of Mercy
The Sisters of Mercy is a global community of Roman Catholic women committed to serving individuals who are economically disadvantaged, ill, or lack access to education. Founded by Catherine McAuley in Dublin, Ireland in 1831, the Sisters of Mercy has become an international organization supporting humanitarian initiatives across the world. In addition to the traditional Catholic vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, members of this order take a fourth vow dedicated to service. This commitment entails dedicating their lives and resources to assist, advocate for, and offer prayers on behalf of those in need worldwide.
The Sisters of Mercy arrived in the United States in 1843, responding to an invitation from the Bishop of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. By 1854, the order had relocated from Ireland and expanded its presence throughout the country.
Upon their arrival in Pennsylvania's Wyoming Valley in 1875, the Sisters of Mercy continued their commitment to prayer, education, and healthcare. They promptly established a school for children and subsequently founded a night school for adults. After creating a robust foundation for Catholic education, the order identified additional unmet needs within the community.
In 1898 the Sisters of Mercy opened Mercy Hospital in Wilkes-Barre to care for the sick and provide nursing education. By 1900, they graduated the first class of nurses. Prior to its closing in 1978, the school graduated over 2000 nurses. In 2005 Mercy Hospital became part of the Geisinger system, and continues operations as Geisinger South today.
On September 15, 1924, the Sisters of Mercy founded Luzerne County’s first four-year institution of higher education, College Misericordia, on approximately 100 acres in Dallas, Pennsylvania. The land was originally acquired by the Sisters in 1914 for this specific purpose. The dedication ceremony for College Misericordia, whose name translates to "heart of mercy," was attended by over 2,500 individuals.
In September of that year, 37 students commenced their academic journey, united by the Sisters’ motto: *Mulier Fortis*, which reflects a commitment to cultivating strength through scholarship and spirituality. Established as a broad-based liberal arts and pre-professional studies institution, Misericordia University remains dedicated to providing high-quality education to individuals of all faith backgrounds. The university has been co-educational since the 1970s and currently offers a range of graduate programs.
