Life of a Sister of Mercy – Marie Louise Jodin

In 1843, Bishop Patrick Phelan and Father Adrien Telmon appealed to the Grey Nuns for assistance, requesting their presence in Bytown, a modest and underprivileged settlement. Two years later, Sister Élisabeth Bruyère arrived with several women to offer aid, marking the beginning of the Sisters of Mercy community in Ottawa. Learn more about the mission, values, and legacy of this remarkable community and its founder at ottawanka.com.

About the Sisters of Mercy in Ottawa

The Sisters of Mercy in Ottawa reside at 27 Bruyère Street, Ottawa, Ontario. You can reach them at 613-241-2710.

The historic building housing the Sisters of Mercy is one of the oldest structures in Ottawa’s Lower Town. Officially inaugurated by the Congregation in 1995, the site safeguards a treasure trove of artifacts collected since the Sisters’ arrival in 1845.

Visitors are welcomed to explore two exhibition halls that offer a tangible connection to Ottawa’s past:

• The first hall showcases artifacts from the community’s first three decades (1845–1876).
• The second hall features temporary exhibitions of more recent historical relics.

To visit this historical site, bookings can be made via phone for weekdays.

The symbol of the Sisters’ community was chosen in 1852, featuring Élisabeth Bruyère. Designed and painted by Sir G. Smith, the emblem was engraved in Paris and delivered to the monastery by Reverend Father Reboule in 1853. This seal remains the official emblem of the Sisters of Mercy, symbolizing their spirituality.

The Story of Foundress Élisabeth Bruyère

Born on March 19, 1818, in the village of L’Assomption near Montreal, Élisabeth Bruyère was one of three children from her father’s second marriage. She adored her father, but tragically lost him at age six. This devastating loss forced Élisabeth and her mother to leave their home and settle in Montreal, where Élisabeth began working as a domestic helper at a young age to support the family.

Élisabeth attended school near the Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel, supported by the Congregation of Notre Dame. At 20, she received her first communion at this chapel.

Her mother’s cousin played a pivotal role in Élisabeth’s life, offering her a home and access to quality education. This foundation allowed her to pursue a career as a teacher.

Élisabeth Bruyère and the Sisters of Charity of Montreal

In 1839, Élisabeth joined the Sisters of Charity of Montreal. At 23, she made her first vows, dedicating herself to service. Around this time, Reverend Mother McMullen was asked to establish a similar community in Bytown (now Ottawa).

Initially, the request was declined, but on November 16, 1844, the Council of Twelve decided to send a small group of Sisters to Bytown. Élisabeth Bruyère was among them, demonstrating exceptional obedience and dedication.

Élisabeth advocated for educational reforms, challenging restrictions that confined teaching to “small schools.” She petitioned higher authorities, ensuring the Sisters could expand their educational mission. Her leadership not only advanced the community but also enriched the Sisters’ expertise in service.

Élisabeth passed away on April 5, 1876, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and commitment.

The Sisters of Mercy in Ottawa

Founded in 1845, the Sisters extended their mission to the United States, fostering a multicultural congregation. Originally known as the “Grey Nuns of the Cross,” their work in Bytown was the cornerstone of their dedication.

After a formal request by Bishop Bourget to Reverend Mother McMullen, the Sisters sent Élisabeth Bruyère and others to fulfill the growing needs of the community. Their work spanned diverse sectors:

• Education: Establishing schools, colleges, and universities to provide quality education, such as Notre Dame School.
• Healthcare: The Sisters transformed Ottawa General Hospital into a centre for patient care, now known as the Élisabeth Bruyère Health Centre.
• Social Services: Offering shelter, food, clothing, and psychological support to those in need.
• Pastoral Care: Providing spiritual guidance, sacraments, and gospel teachings.

The Sisters of Mercy dedicate their lives to service, guided by their commitment to justice, love, and respect for all individuals regardless of background.

Values Upheld by the Sisters

The Sisters’ mission is rooted in simple yet profound values:

• Compassion and Listening: Creating safe spaces for individuals to share their struggles and feel understood.
• Selflessness: Prioritizing the needs of others over their own.
• Simplicity: Focusing on fundamental values that bring clarity and peace.
• Respect and Joy: Fostering trust and positivity to uplift those around them.

These values encapsulate the Sisters’ dedication to their community and faith. Their archival department meticulously documents the history of their congregation, preserving the legacy of Élisabeth Bruyère and the contributions of the Sisters of Mercy in Ottawa.

Through their unwavering commitment to education, healthcare, and social justice, the Sisters of Mercy continue to shape the lives of countless individuals, embodying the enduring spirit of compassion and service.