Unite for Catherine McAuley House Renovation

2024 Mercy Pilgrimage and Catherine McAuley Legacy

Dear Pilgrims 2024,

It’s been nearly 9 months since our 2024 Mercy Pilgrimage and yet the inspiration of Catherine McAuley continues to guide us through her legacy to provide compassionate care to all in need.

For those fortunate to have visited the “Catherine McAuley House” associated with the Mater Hospital on Leo Street, Dublin, we saw how providing a daily meal and social engagement for the local elderly community members embodies the spirit of Mercy and service that Catherine McAuley so passionately championed. We also saw a building, unfortunately, in need of care and attention.

The gathering space for the Catherine McAuley House guests is halved by a wall, literally. The kitchen and toilet facilities need updating. Since the Pilgrimage several of us have taken Catherine’s bias for action to heart, and we embarked on a project to remove the wall to increase the gathering space at the Catherine McAuley House. Suzanne Dempsey and Dolores Heery of the Mater Hospital are collaborating with us to undertake the additional necessary renovations of the Catherine McAuley House.

The removal of the wall will significantly increase Catherine McAuley House’s capacity to provide care and support to even more individuals who rely upon its services. To bring this vision to fruition, we are reaching out to you, our fellow Mercy Pilgrims, for your support. The cost to remove the wall and finish the space is estimated at $10,000 US of which 20% has been pledged. The Mater Hospital, or its affiliate, will fund the cost for the renovations updating toilets and other functional spaces.

All gift amounts are gratefully accepted. Upon achieving the $10,000 goal, donations in excess will be maintained in the “Mercy account” established and managed by the trustees of Sr Margareta Rock and to be used for the maintenance of the Catherine McAuley House on Leo Street.

We believe that together, we can create a space that truly reflects the legacy of Catherine McAuley—a space of mercy, healing, and hope. We invite you to join us in this endeavor, ensuring that Catherine McAuley House remains a beacon of care and compassion for generations to come. Should you have any questions or wish to discuss this project further, please do not hesitate to contact us.

With Gratitude,

Alan Copenhaver, Grant Spinner, Michael McCluskey – 2024 Mercy Pilgrims