With the coming of spring the temptation for me was to reflect on new beginnings, or the AFL finals, or our recent Mercy Ministry Companions (MMC) Mercy Day message of fostering a heart for mercy within ourselves and our ministries.
I have settled upon a more personal reflection and that is on the unique role I have working at MMC. I was fortunate enough to have been appointed the inaugural EO on what is now the second newest Australian Ministerial Public Juridic Person.
We are all often asked to briefly describe what we do and who we work for in a sentence or less, that is, the ‘elevator pitch’. My explanation of a Ministerial Public Juridic Person is often met by blank stares. Describing the role of Executive Officer is also met with bemusement.
Where I do gain traction and interest is in describing our ministries and what they do. Working with an organisation that is a companion along the journey with these ministries is a source of great pride. Whilst my role is difficult to sum up in a sentence, there is great fulfilment and sense of purpose in working with an organisation that has at its heart a Mercy tradition.
I may be a touch biased, but I consider the word ‘mercy’ itself is one of the most beautiful words in the English language.
Who wouldn’t want to work for an organisation that has a heart for mercy. I am drawn to the definition of mercy that is more than just compassion or the feeling of sympathy. It is putting this feeling into practice with a readiness and willingness to assist anyone in need.
When I have visited any of the ministries, whether it be education, community services, or health and ageing, more often than not with the Trustee Directors, this heart for mercy is what always stands out.
It is a source of great satisfaction that I work for an organisation which has as its core values: compassion; hope; hospitality; justice; and respect.
I am proud of where I work and the people I work with. It is with a sense of admiration and awe that I meet our ministry staff at any Mercy function, whether it be the recent Academy of Mary Immaculate Mercy Day Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral in Melbourne, or mingling with some of the middle leaders from our ministries at their wonderful graduation service at our MMC office in Dawson Street Brunswick.
It may be difficult to describe in one sentence what we do, but the hope still lives. Despite that minor challenge I am inspired by our people and the work they do. It is a unique privilege to work with an organisation that helps to change lives for the better, bringing light and hope to the lives of many.
Anthony Loschiavo, Executive Officer Mercy Ministry Companions