“The blessing of unity still dwells amongst us…the true spirit of Mercy flowing on us.”  -  Catherine McAuley

Celebrating 150 Years… Our Sesquicentenary in 2013!

There are many events planned to celebrate and commemorate our sesquicentenary. Already, as a College, the girls had the opportunity to enjoy our 150^th Birthday with a fun day that coincided with International Women’s Day. On the 8^th March, as well as enjoying birthday cake and pizzas, the girls enjoyed a walk back in time, with a Uniform Parade, and participated in events such as The Running of the Nuns and Ballgames.  

For the wider community, and specifically our Past Associates, including past students, past parents and past staff, the College, along with St Mary’s Primary School have planned a number of events to fall between the 1^st and 5^th May. May is the month of Our Lady after whom both schools are names, and the Sisters of Mercy arrived in Ipswich on the 1^st May 1863. And so, we could not have found a better time to celebrate our 150 year history. 

The program across these days will include: 

Wednesday 1st May	Opening and Blessing of the restored Mercy House Commencing at 1.30 pm Followed by a High Tea  A wonderful occasion was enjoyed by a large number of Mercy Sisters, Past and Present Associates of the College.
Thursday 2nd May      Friday 3rd May	“The Belles of St Mary’s – Musical” 7.30 pm McAuley Centre  an outstanding sucess
Saturday 4th May	Launch of the History Display, Ipswich Art Gallery
Saturday 4th May	150 Mercy In Ipswich Celebration Dinner A wonderful night of friendship, fine food and dancing.
Sunday 5th May	Sesquicentenary Eucharistic Celebration and Open Day Mass held in the St Mary’s Church at 11.00 am. Open Day across the two schools  12.30 – 3.30 pm

 

Other events across the year…

In addition to these celebrations, we are excited about Archbishop Mark Coleridge celebrating Eucharist with our two schools in September, and the launch of Catholic Education Week being hosted by St Mary’s College on Wednesday 24^th July. 

There are a number of items which can be purchased as keepsakes for these celebrations. This includes two publications namely a recipe book, “Cooking at Catherine’s Table” organised by the St Mary’s College Parents and Friends Association and a history book written by Sr Dr Patricia Blundell rsm, called “In God’s own time: St Mary’s College, Ipswich, celebrating 150 years of Education in the Mercy tradition.” 

The College has also being working on a Journal Project which has seen 150 Journals circulated to capture stories and reflections from Past Associates on their experience of the College. These will be available on the May weekend for visitors to add their contributions as well as to read the thoughts of others. 

Finally, the College is excited about our inaugural Social Justice Trip to Cambodia. We have a band of approximately 20 travellers who are well on their way to being prepared for this epic adventure departing in late November this year. The group includes current staff, parents, and past and present students. 

All in all, a big year full of special celebrations but more importantly opportunities for Past and Present Associates to gather and enjoy community.

 Deidre Young -   Principal

Be part of our Past Associates List by returning the following form completed. download here > Past Associates Membership Form