International Tea Day 21 May

In her last moments, Catherine McAuley, foundress of the Sisters of Mercy, directed that the Sisters would gather in the community room and have "a good cup of tea... when I am gone and to comfort one another".  These words witness the hospitality, care and concern for one another and togetherness that are Catherine's final legacy.

Since then, 11 November 1841, the date of Catherine's death, a good cup of tea has had great significance for the Sisters of Mercy, and is central to celebrations such as Mercy Day, 24 September when the foundation of the Order is celebrated.