Mercy Day Mass marks 100 years of education and service

St Joseph’s Mercy Secondary School, Navan, will celebrate a major milestone this September as it marks the centenary of its registration as a secondary school in Ireland.

Mercy education in Navan dates back to 1853, when the Sisters of Mercy first opened their doors to students, but this anniversary recognises the formal registration of the school under the Irish secondary school system in 1925.

The occasion will be marked at the school’s annual Mercy Day Mass, taking place on Tuesday, 23rd September at 2.30pm in St Mary’s Church, Navan.

This year’s Mass is centred on the theme ‘Pilgrims of Hope’, inspired by the Vatican’s 2025 Jubilee. The celebration will bring together students, staff, parents, past pupils, and members of the local community to give thanks for a century of education and service. The Mass will honour the vision of Catherine McAuley and the Sisters of Mercy, reflecting on the school’s tradition of faith, compassion, and commitment to the people of Navan.

Principal David McCormack said: “This is a very special year for our school community. As ‘Pilgrims of Hope,’ we look back with gratitude for the past century and look forward with optimism as we continue to empower future generations.”

All past pupils and members of the wider community are warmly invited to join the celebration.