From Dublin to Sydney
Our Historical Timeline
Over 190 years of Mercy, compassion, and service
Catherine McAuley is Born
Catherine McAuley was born in Dublin, Ireland. She would grow to become a woman of extraordinary vision and compassion, dedicating her life to serving the poor and marginalised.
Catherine Studies in France
Catherine McAuley travelled to France to learn from the teaching style of the De la Salle Brothers and Sisters of Charity. This experience shaped her approach to education as a path to liberation.
House of Mercy Opens
Catherine McAuley opened the first House of Mercy on Baggot Street, Dublin. The house provided education, shelter, and support for women and children living in poverty. It became the foundation of the Mercy movement.
Sisters of Mercy Founded
Catherine McAuley formally established the Sisters of Mercy as a religious congregation. The women she inspired to carry out this work became the first Sisters of Mercy, dedicated to walking the path with the underprivileged.
Catherine McAuley Passes Away
Catherine McAuley died on 11 November 1841. By this time, the Sisters of Mercy had already established foundations across Ireland and England. Her legacy of compassion and service would soon reach the shores of Australia.
Elizabeth McQuoin Arrives in Sydney
On 15 November 1865, Elizabeth McQuoin arrived in Sydney at The Rocks, bringing the Mercy mission to Australia. This marked the beginning of the Monte Mercy story and a new chapter of service to the Sydney community.
First Mercy School at The Rocks
The Sisters of Mercy established their first school in Sydney at The Rocks, beginning the tradition of Mercy education in Australia. Catholic education was seen as the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and marginalisation.
Expansion Across North Sydney
The Sisters expanded their mission across North Sydney, establishing schools, welfare services, and community support programs. Their work touched the lives of countless families in the growing suburbs of Sydney's North Shore.
Stormanston House Established
Stormanston House on McLaren Street, North Sydney, became a central hub for the Sisters of Mercy. The beautiful Victorian red-brick building would serve as the heart of the congregation's activities for generations to come.
Mater Hospital Founded
The Sisters of Mercy established the Mater Hospital at Crows Nest, championing access to healthcare for those who could neither afford nor were welcome in other hospitals. Catherine McAuley's vision of health as a means to break the poverty cycle was realised in Sydney.
Monte Sant' Angelo Mercy College
Monte Sant' Angelo Mercy College grew into one of Sydney's most respected educational institutions, carrying forward Catherine McAuley's belief that education is the great liberator. Generations of young women were empowered through Mercy education.
Social Justice Advocacy Expands
The Sisters of Mercy broadened their social justice work, responding to the evolving needs of society. Their advocacy extended to Indigenous issues, child care, aged care, and support for women in need — embodying the values of dignity, compassion, and service.
Mission & Heritage Centre Established
The Mission and Heritage Centre was established at Stormanston House to preserve and share the Monte Mercy story. The centre embraces Elizabeth McQuoin's story and her legacy to the Sydney community through artefacts, photographs, and memorabilia.
A Living Legacy of Mercy
The legacy of Catherine McAuley challenges us all to lead lives of Mercy which embody the values of Dignity, Compassion, Justice, Education, Service, Hospitality, Advocacy and Stewardship. The Mission and Heritage Centre continues to welcome visitors and share this remarkable story.
Experience the Full Story
Visit the Mission and Heritage Centre to walk through over 150 years of Mercy history in person.