Issue 1.5 - May 19, 2025
A successful Mercy Initiative thrives with dedicated leadership team at its heart! This week, we’re turning our attention to the importance of forming and empowering your "Mercy Team" — the group of individuals who will help bring the initiative to life.
Your Mercy Team doesn’t need to be large. This team will serve as ambassadors of mercy in your parish, school, or organization — helping to coordinate efforts, communicate with others, and celebrate the many acts of service happening within your community.
By building a strong team and giving them the tools and support they need, you lay the foundation for a campaign that not only reaches your goals but transforms hearts along the way.
SAMPLE TEAM ROLES
Consider the following roles when planning who will be part of your "Mercy Team":
- Team Leader: Oversees the entire initiative
- Communications Lead: Manages all promotional efforts
- Event Coordinator: Plans and executes mercy events
- Ministry Liaison: Connects with existing ministries
- Spiritual Formation Lead: Provides theological context and reflection
LEADERSHIP RESOURCES
The following are available in the Finding Hope Through Mercy Toolkit:
- Planning Aid and Responsibilities Worksheet
- Timeline overview for a sample Mercy Event
- Step-by-step planning guide
- Sample formation materials
- Sample communication materials
MERCY TIP OF THE WEEK
Are you hosting a Mercy Event in August? Start planning your communications strategy now for promoting your event.
BOOST PARTICIPATION
Digital & Remote Participation Options
Not everyone can participate in person, but everyone can show mercy! Here are some ideas:
Digital Engagement:
- Host a virtual "Mercy Hour" via Zoom with guided activities participants can do from home
- Send weekly email suggestions for Works of Mercy that can be done remotely
- Create downloadable "Mercy Calendars" with daily suggestions
- Share video testimonials from participants to inspire others
Remote Participation Ideas:
- Prayer chains that can be joined from anywhere
- "Phone a Friend" campaigns to check on those who are isolated
- Digital letter-writing to nursing homes or hospitals
- Family mercy challenges that can be done at home
- "Mercy Moments" that can be incorporated into daily routines
Recording Tip:
Create a simple guide for how remote participants can log their acts on www.Mercy2025.org, including screenshots of the submission process.
