In August, the Sisters of Mercy of Jamaica hosted its annual Mercy Charism workshops and Christian Meditation workshops which were attended by staff members from all Mercy Schools in Jamaica. They were led by Sister Peggy Verstege, RSM, and members of the World Community for Christian Meditation (WCCM) respectively.
Mercy Charism Workshops
Sister Peggy began by referencing Mercy pioneers Catherine McAuley and Jessie Ripoll, who answered God’s call by fully living out the Mercy charism and inspiring others. She emphasized that “Mercy is love in action,” explaining that showing Mercy means loving others without counting the cost. Using the Biblical story of the Good Samaritan, Sister illustrated the radical nature of Mercy through modern-day scenarios where people on opposing sides showed compassion to each other. Attendees shared how they embody Mercy in their lives and discussed the importance of empathy, active listening, and helping others to help themselves.
Christian Meditation Workshops
Apart from the Mercy Charism workshops, the Mercy staff also took part in Christian meditation sessions. These facilitators began by explaining what Christian Meditation is, debunking common misconceptions about the practice of it, and highlighting the link between Christian Meditation and the Sisters of Mercy’s critical concern for non-violence. Attendees were also educated on the positive physical, psychological and spiritual effects of this meditative practice. Afterwards, workshop attendees were led through a short, 10-minute meditation exercise and then shared their experiences of it.
A video showcasing student testimonials from a Trinidadian school highlighted the benefits of Christian Meditation in schools. Students reported improved focus, calmness, fewer fights, and feeling calmer, less reactionary, and more rational throughout the school days. Based on these and other promising results, the Mercy Staff were encouraged to create action plans to incorporate Christian meditation into their respective schools and workplaces. Already, we have seen the fruit of this as both Alpha Infant and St. John Bosco Vocational Training Centre have since led their students Christian meditation exercises.
