Sisters of Mercy Celebrate 140 Years in Cedar Rapids
On July 22, 2015, the Sisters of Mercy celebrated their 140th anniversary in Cedar Rapids. Among the festivities, the Sisters dedicated a plaque at the Century Link building in downtown Cedar Rapids, which marks the location of the first Sisters of Mercy ministry; hosted an outreach service project; and received an official proclamation from the City of Cedar Rapids, declaring July 22, 2015, as an official day of recognition honoring the Sisters of Mercy for their innumerable gifts and longstanding commitment to enhancing the greater good in the Cedar Rapids community and beyond.
The Sisters of Mercy arrived in Cedar Rapids in 1875, founding schools and later Mercy Medical Center, the Catherine McAuley Center, and Mount Mercy College, now known as Mount Mercy University. Guided by their vow of service to the poor, sick and uneducated, the Sisters founded Mercy Medical Center in November of 1900.
The Sisters of Mercy still carry out their mission today within the hospital. Mercy is fortunate to have six sisters who each have a special role in providing care to the community — Sister James Marie Donahue, Sister Peg Murphy (who just retired on July 31), Sister Gladys Frein, Sister Susan O’Connor, Sister Mary Lou Podzimek and Sister Marilyn Ward. Their integration into roles within the foundation, volunteer office, pastoral care and administration are key to the delivery of The Mercy Touch.
Their work has proven to have a tremendous influence on the lives of countless people. Happy 140th anniversary, Sisters! We are proud to work beside you and carry out your mission. Thank you for all you have done for our community and throughout the world!
