Order of Poor Ladies

The Order of the Poor Ladies, also known as the Sisters of Mercy, was founded in the early 19th century by Catherine McAuley in Ireland. It is a religious community dedicated to serving the poor, sick, and uneducated through education, healthcare, and charitable work. Members, or sisters, take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, committing their lives to compassionate service. The order emphasizes practical aid and social justice, aiming to uphold dignity for those marginalized by society. Over time, it has grown globally, establishing schools, hospitals, and social services to assist vulnerable populations.