Membership & Vocations

The Sisters of Mercy of the Americas are an international community of Roman Catholic women vowed to serve people who are poor, sick and uneducated, with a special concern for women and children. In innovative and traditional ways, they address human needs though collaborative efforts in education, health care, housing, and pastoral and social services.

  • Do you have a longing to connect with a community like this?

  • Is there restlessness in your spirit that you are seeking to still?

  • Are you interested in discovering more about the support that can come from living in community?

Vocation ministry is about meeting with a designated Sister of Mercy and asking your questions freely without pressure. Asking the questions does not commit you to a decision.

Perhaps you would like the conversation to happen over coffee or at a meal. An initial meeting is scheduled to fit your schedule — where ever or however you choose. If you’re interested in beginning a conversation, please contact one of our vocation ministers, Sister Kathleen Wayne, RSM at kawmercyroch@yahoo.com or by calling 288-2710 x109 or Sister Sheila Stevenson RSM at sssrsm@localnet.com or by calling 585-288-2710 ext. 112.

What Attracts Women to Mercy?

"When asked, 'What attracts me to Sisters of Mercy?' I would say it’s a combination of their un-waving faith to serve God wholeheartedly and to help others make the courageous step to serve God in similar capacities."

"Because I have been touched by mercy, I feel compelled to extend mercy to others. The seed of mercy was planted when I was in the third grade. A Sister came to talk to my class about the Philippine mobile medical mission van. The seed lay dormant until years later when I heard about the mobile migrant school. The call to mercy took root and grew. As I saw Sisters of Mercy walking with people to meet their needs and reverencing their dignity, I felt an urge to do the same."

"For today, the devoted religious embrace distinct traditions in a society were commercialization or capitalism is sometimes perceived to be more valuable then the impact and power of God’s will. I find their perseverance to serve the mission of Mercy and to encourage others to serve in similar ways an attractive ministry."

"I see the Sisters of Mercy as a group dedicated religious women who are making a difference through the works of ministry. Their works overflow with abundant love for community, each other and as God’s instruments. In that, the Sisters of Mercy have traditionally incorporated a discernment ministry aimed to assist women recognize their vocation. This discernment ministry is an effective and objective process for those who are seeking vocational direction in either the secular or religious environment. The process diligently combines prayer, grace, heart and knowledge as means to unfold the calling. I find their passion to serve God and helping women discern their calling both captivating and contagious."