Catherine McAuley

Date of Birth: September 29, 1778

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: November 11, 1841

Biography

Catherine McAuley was born in Dublin, Ireland, and is renowned for her significant contributions to the Roman Catholic Church and social work. She is the foundress of the Sisters of Mercy, a religious congregation dedicated to the education of the poor and the care of the sick. Orphaned at a young age and raised by relatives, Catherine experienced firsthand the plight of the underprivileged. This instilled in her a deep sense of compassion and a desire to help those in need. In 1827, she used an inheritance to open the first House of Mercy in Dublin, providing shelter, education, and religious instruction to poor women and children. Her work quickly expanded, leading to the formation of the Sisters of Mercy in 1831. Catherine’s vision and leadership were instrumental in establishing numerous schools, hospitals, and orphanages across Ireland and beyond.

5 Interesting Facts about Catherine McAuley

1. Catherine McAuley was 53 years old when she founded the Sisters of Mercy.

2. The first House of Mercy was located on Baggot Street in Dublin.

3. McAuley famously said, “We should be as shining lamps, giving light to all around us.”

4. The Sisters of Mercy became known as the “walking nuns” because they went out into the community to serve the poor, rather than staying cloistered.

5. By the time of her death, Catherine McAuley had established 14 convents and numerous institutions for the poor and sick.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Catherine McAuley

1. “We should be shining lamps, giving light to all around us.”

2. “No work of charity can be more productive of good to society than the careful instruction of women.”

3. “The simplest and most practical lesson I know is to resolve to be good today, but better tomorrow.”

4. “It is for God we serve the poor, and not for thanks.”

5. “If the love of God really reigns in your heart, it will quickly show itself in the exterior.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Catherine McAuley used her personal inheritance of approximately £30,000 to fund her charitable works, which would be worth several million dollars today. However, she did not accumulate personal wealth and devoted her resources to the Sisters of Mercy.

Children

Catherine McAuley did not have any biological children. As a religious sister, she dedicated her life to the service of others and considered the women and children she helped as her spiritual family.