Have you ever felt called by God but had no idea how that calling would come to life? For many, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the unknown and step away from the challenge. But fortunately for the thousands of guests who have visited Well of Mercy, Sister Brigid McCarthy, RSM, and Sister Donna Vaillancourt, RSM, didn’t give up on the calling they received.

Following God’s Call to Create a Place Apart

The Sisters heard a recurring question from their clients: “Do you know of a place where I can go?”

At that time, they didn’t know of such a place, but they felt called to create one—a ministry unlike any other. Through faith in God, discernment, and the support of the Sisters of Mercy, their journey began.

Overcoming Obstacles to Build Well of Mercy

The calling came with no shortage of challenges. From the first step of searching for land, it became clear the journey would require faith, courage, and determination.

Here are just a few of the obstacles they faced:

• Finding all 48 heirs to sign off on the land sale.
• Clearing the property to prepare for construction.
• Raising funds to build the necessary facilities.
• Drilling three wells before finally hitting water.

Despite the many hurdles, the Sisters persisted. With a combination of sweat equity, community support, and trust in God’s guidance, Well of Mercy came to life.

Honoring the Foundresses with a Memorial Garden

Now, decades later, the dream of creating a memorial to honor Sisters Brigid and Donna’s commitment is becoming a reality. The Foundresses Garden is moving through its final stages—from concept and design to selecting the right craftsman to create the gate and installing the stone pillars.

The garden will stand as a testament to the faith and determination these two Sisters demonstrated in following God’s call and creating a “place apart.”

Faith, Courage, and Determination for Your Journey

We hope you’ve enjoyed this look back at the origins of Well of Mercy alongside a sneak preview of the Foundresses Garden.

May the legacy of Sisters Brigid and Donna inspire you to answer the callings in your own life—whether they come as small, daily nudges or as blue-sky challenges that seem impossible at first.

Sending you Faith, Courage, and Determination for whatever journey God places before you.