McAuley Namesake and Heritage

Catherine was born into a wealthy family in Ireland. Her father brought poor children to their home on weekends for instruction in the Catholic faith. He died when Catherine was very young, but his compassion influenced her entire life. Catherine's mother taught her independence, poise and charm. After her Mother's premature death Catherine went to live with the Callaghans. For twenty years she cared for them and their estate, growing closer to God through prayer while performing works of charity.

She inherited the Callaghans' fortune and used the money to build the House of Mercy, a home for working girls and orphans and school for poor children. Other women joined her and in 1831 Catherine founded the Sisters of Mercy. Soon they were invited to other parts of Ireland and England.

Two years after Catherine's death Frances Warde led the Sisters of Mercy to the United States. Within fifty years the circle of Mercy encompassed the world.

Learn More About Catherine McAuley and the Sisters of Mercy