St. Pius X School of Santa Fe Springs, California honors Sisters of Mercy

In 1955 the Sisters of Mercy founded the St. Pius X School in Santa Fe Springs, California and over the course of the next thirty-three years, sixty-four Sisters taught, mentored, and cared deeply for the thousands of students, who attended the school.

A few years ago, while attending a 40th anniversary Mass for my classmate, Fr. Richard Benson, C.M., I noticed nothing at the parish or school spoke of the love and labors of the Sisters of Mercy. After numerous emails later and visits to Burlingame to query some “marvelous Mercy minds” (thank you Sister Marian Clare Valenteen), a plaque was made with the names of all 64 Sisters that also includes the Mercy vocations from the parish.

On Sunday, January 28, 2024, St. Pius X church filled with alumni, family, friends, and parishioners to celebrate and honor the Sisters. Fr. Benson gave a rousing homily that highlighted the Sisters and spoke of the value of Catholic education. Seated in the front chairs, just like it once was, were the Sisters of Mercy who received several ovations from the packed church. After Mass, Fr. Benson blessed the plaque along with a beautifully mounted picture of Mother Catherine McAuley. Following his homily, I gave a brief history of the Sisters and their years at the school. Posterboards all around the statue base depicted photos of the Sisters throughout their thirty-three years at the school. Students gifted the Sisters with a basket filled with artistic handmade cards with messages of gratitude. The event was followed by brunch in the parish hall.

We were thrilled to have with us that day; Sr. Vickie Brady, Sr. Diane Clyne, Sr. Toni Lynn Gallagher, and Sr. Bernie Hart; along with Sr. Yvette Perrault, and vocations from St. Pius X; Sr. Gloria Mary Avila and Sr. Beatrice Marie Garcia. Thanks, in no small way to the St. Pius X student government leaders and the St. Paul High School students who helped immeasurably. The event was beyond expectations. Fr. Benson’s homily was a hit out of the park and held the congregation awestruck! It was such a joy to see the Sisters smiling from ear to ear, engaging with so many friends showing appreciation, and receiving hugs from former students and parents filled with affection and gratitude. Every ounce of it was long overdue and well-deserved. It was truly a day filled with Mercy!