Dr. Kline-Kator '97 Pilgrimage to Ireland

Dr. Alison Kline-Kator '97, Registrar & Director of Mission Integration, recently traveled to Dublin, Ireland, for In Catherine’s Boots: A Mercy Pilgrimage to Ireland, a transformative experience sponsored by Mercy Education. She joined 25 fellow Mercy educators from across the United States, Australia, Belize, Jamaica and the Philippines for several days of prayer, reflection and conversation while walking in the footsteps of Catherine McAuley and deepening their understanding of her life, leadership and legacy.

At the Mercy International Centre on Baggot Street, Catherine McAuley’s home and the first House of Mercy, the pilgrims prayed in the chapel, spent time in the first Mercy classroom and reflected near Catherine’s grave. Dr. Kline-Kator even had the special opportunity to climb the staircase and ring the bell, connecting her in a memorable way to the story and traditions of Mercy.

The pilgrimage also included a visit to Mercy College Coolock, where students welcomed the group and provided a tour of their school, as well as Coolock House, where Catherine lived for many years. The group also traveled to Glendalough, home to a sixth-century monastic community, for further prayer and reflection.

Through these sacred places and shared experiences, Dr. Kline-Kator and her fellow Mercy educators explored how Catherine’s vision continues to inspire lives of compassion, justice and service today. We are grateful she had the opportunity to deepen her connection to our shared Mercy story and bring the spirit of Catherine’s legacy home to our Mercy community.