Mercy Women's contribution honoured by Church

This evening in St Patrick's Cathedral Parramatta, the contribution made by a number of people across a variety of services was honoured through the presentation to recipients of Papal and Diocesan awards.

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Date Posted:
08-Aug-2014

L-R: Adrianne Hannan, Carol Harding, Rosemary Crumlin, Mary-Louise Petro, Margery Jackman, and Sabine Harriss

Mercy women featured prominently amongst the group of 34 recipients.  


Sisters Rosemary Crumlin and Mary Louise Petro were the recipients of the Cross Pro-Ecclesia Et Pontifice.   This award, originating from 1888, is bestowed on those who have given service to the Church.  


Sr Rosemary Crumlin received this award for her contribution over more than 60 years as a Sister of Mercy in the fields of education and the Arts.  Rosemary has produced several books on various aspects of art and spirituality and has also curated a number of significant exhibitions of religious art.  


Sr Mary-Louise Petro received her award for her contribution over more than 40 years as a Sister of Mercy in the fields of education, youth ministry and social welfare.  Mary Louise established Mamre House in the 1980's, a hub for the provision of a variety of social welfare programs to support the disadvantaged of Western Sydney, which continues to this day.


Also honoured with Diocesan Medals were members of the 125 Women and Men of Mercy for their contribution in various fields.  


Mrs Carol Harding was recognised for her contribution to her local parish, community and for her work supporting women and children at risk through St Michael's Family Centre Baulkham Hills.


Ms Margery Jackman was recognised for her contribution to the Parish of St Patrick's Parramatta; her significant contribution to Catholic education, especially to girls and young women, and her commitment to social justice in the broader community through her membership of the Board of Mercy Works Inc.


Ms Adrianne Hannan was recognised for her contribution to the Catholic education, workplace justice and equity, and her commitment to the support of the disadvantaged through her extensive efforts with the St Vincent de Paul Society.


Ms Sabine Harriss was recognised for her contribution to the parish of Our Lady Queen of Peace Greystanes through pastoral support of those in need and commitment to social justice in her support of asylum seekers and refugees through various projects.  


The Sisters of Mercy Parramatta were delighted to see the dedicated commitment of these women honoured in this way.

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