Our Lady of Mercy Parish: A Diverse Community Centered in Faith
Since joining Our Lady of Mercy Parish in July 2023, Fr. Thomas Byrne has witnessed the rich cultures and traditions that define this unique faith community. “Our parish is large and diverse, with people from all over the world – from the Philippines to Ecuador, Guatemala, Puerto Rico, and many areas of Latin America,” he says. This diversity is a source of pride and vitality at Our Lady of Mercy, where parishioners embrace a global experience of the Church. “There’s something happening here every day and every night. Our parish is really like home for many people,” Fr. Byrne explains.
Youth Ministry: Fostering Growth and Formation
Our Lady of Mercy’s youth and young adult ministries are central to nurturing future leaders and deepening faith. Every Wednesday, a charismatic young adult group gathers for prayer and spiritual formation, which, Fr. Byrne notes, “has been instrumental in helping young parents prepare their children for the sacraments.” Four hundred fifty children are enrolled in catechesis this year, and very dedicated catechists lead this program. In addition, a Scouting program and a youth group for 7th grade through high school engage young people in service, fellowship, and spiritual development. This year, the parish’s deanery, including nearby parishes like Padre Pio and Queen of Apostles, will host a Teen Triduum retreat, offering youth a chance to reflect on Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday by journeying together between churches.
Community Outreach
Our Lady of Mercy is committed to serving its surrounding community. Blood drives are regularly held, and the parish collaborates with St. Clement Parish on a large Christmas coat drive for those in need. Fr. Byrne is also looking to expand community outreach by adding a food pantry at their second site, St. Francis Xavier. Pastoral Migratoria, a ministry dedicated to immigrant support, is especially active at Our Lady of Mercy. “Our parish welcomes new families continually,” Fr. Byrne says. This ministry sponsors families with housing and essential resources and collaborates with driving schools to help parishioners gain driver’s licenses, promoting independence and stability.
The parish also partners with local consulates to provide legal and social support. Twice a year, the Mexican consulate offers workshops to assist parishioners with essential documentation. English and GED classes are planned to restart to further to help people with their language and educational goals.
Cultural Traditions and Celebrations
At Our Lady of Mercy, cultural and liturgical celebrations bring the community together in a powerful way. On January 1, parishioners mark the Feast of Nuestra Señora de la Nube (Our Lady of the Cloud), a special day for Ecuadorians. “Bishop Bartosic comes to celebrate, and 1,400 people join in a neighborhood procession,” Fr. Byrne shares. Other highlights include the Feast of Cristo de Esquipulas on January 15, which draws a sizeable Guatemalan contingent, and Señor de los Milagros in October, where 1,400 Peruvians attend Mass and participate in a procession with a traditional image of Christ. During Advent, the parish celebrates Simbang Gabi, a Filipino Christmas tradition, and Las Posadas.
Fr. Byrne is excited about a unique community wedding celebration planned for April 2025. In this event, 15 couples will receive the sacrament of marriage in a bilingual Mass. This event reflects the parish’s dedication to strengthening family bonds and celebrating faith milestones within the community.
Eucharistic Worship and Prayer
For Fr. Byrne, what makes Our Lady of Mercy truly special is how parishioners have come together as one faith community. “The cool thing is that everybody is welcome here because it's such a diverse place,” he says. “It’s amazing to see the care, respect, and unity these people have developed in Christ despite coming from very different places.” Central to this unity is the Eucharist. “The Eucharist is the center of our life here,” Fr. Byrne explains. Every Friday, the parish offers Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, providing a peaceful oasis of prayer for parishioners and the surrounding neighborhood.
Our Lady of Mercy Parish is a place where faith, culture, and community meet and welcome all to experience the love and unity found in Christ.
