OFFICE OF MISSION & MINISTRY

A Blessed Lenten Season

Looking for ways to make this Lent a meaningful one? During this season of prayer, fasting, almsgiving, and returning to God we'd like to offer the following for your prayerful reflection.

Lent Penance Service at Mercy

Sacrament of Reconciliation - Mark your calendar for Tuesday, March 12. You can stop by to receive this sacrament anytime from 7:30 am-3:30 pm in our Mercy chapel.

Kate Bowler's Free Download Lent Journal

Have a Beautiful Terrible Lent! Click here to download a free copy.

Lenten Reflection

(Adapted from Br. Matt Wooters, SJ - follow him on social media @br_matt)

1. What's one concrete thing you can do for your immediate community? This might be for your family, your neighbors, co-workers, friends, classmates and teammates.

Examples: 

• Donating blood every ten days during Lent. Something that could really help people in need.
• Offering to babysit for free for a young couple in your neighborhood.
• Shoveling an elderly neighbor's snowy driveway.
• Seeing what the homeless shelter might need and buying groceries for them. 

2. What's one act of service you might repeat for your immediate crew? Or for strangers?

3. What's one thing taking up more space in your life than you'd like? Maybe there's something that might fill that space of the thing you give up? Reading a book or praying?

Examples: 

• What would it look like if you put your phone in the other room in the evening and didn't scroll until you fell asleep?

4. What's an addition to your prayer life you'd like to start? 

• What if you just list gratitudes each evening? Take ten minutes to notice the good in your life each day. 
• Pray the words Fr. Marko suggested in his Ash Wednesday Mass homily when you wake up and before you go to bed each night: "Jesus, I give you permission to love me the way you want to love me."

• You might commit to praying a few Hail Mary's each night.
• Perhaps you would like to strive to make it to Sunday Mass every week during Lent?
• A podcast to try: Pray as you Go. They read the Gospel, ask you questions then read the gospel. The whole thing takes 12 minutes. 
• What if you prayed on your drive to school? This could look like shutting off the music and noise and sitting in your car and talking to God on your way to Mercy in the morning.

Bibles & Bagels for Students

All students are invited to Bibles & Bagels in Mission & Ministry on Tuesday, February 27 before school at 7:15am. Just bring yourself and your Bible.

Over winter break weekend, Mercy Quiz Bowl competed in the Goldeneye National Online Tournament. After eight games of heated competition, the team finished 4th place in the consolation bracket. The team consisted of Emily Capatina '26, Chisom Nwoke '25, Robin Dybis '25, and Alyssa Chavez '26 (left to right). A special congratulations to Emily Capatina '26, who earned her varsity letter at the tournament. Additionally, Chisom Nwoke '25 finished 16th individually, scoring an impressive 305 points for Mercy. View the tournament statistics here.

Mardi Gras Chez Mercy!

All French classes celebrated the official last day before Lent, Mardi Gras, in true French tradition! The French 1 students made the Mardi Gras jester, which dates back to Medieval Times and the Renaissance era. Students in the French 2 individually designed their own unique and colorful Mardi Gras mask decorated with feathers, jewels and lots of green, yellow and purple bling. The French 3 classes decorated coconuts in the Zulu tradition, which dates back to 1910 and French 4 classes designed their own crowns as they were all Queens of Mardi Gras. All classes also enjoyed their beads and a taste of traditional King Cake, direct from New Orleans. We would like to extend a special “merci” to community partners Fresh Thyme Produce market in Farmington Hills that donated all the coconuts and the Farmington Kroger who allowed us to purchase 15 King Cakes at a discounted price.

2024-25 ENROLLMENT AGREEMENT

Enrollment agreements for current students for the 2024-25 school year are now available on Tuition Management. Please complete the enrollment forms and submit them along with your deposit by March 31, 2024 to ensure the best programs and elective offerings for your daughter.

• To enroll, visit Tuition Management at mhsmi.myschoolapp.com.
• For Tuition Management login instructions and FAQ, click here.
• Details about tuition payment plans, visit mhsmi.org/admissions/tuition. 

We encourage any family who may need assistance to apply for financial aid. We have endowed scholarships and additional funds received from donors that are available for tuition assistance. Visit mhsmi.org/admissions/financial-aid for information and a link to apply. Applications for financial aid are due March 31, 2024.

CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Join us for our annual HRC Assembly this Friday, February 23

Assembly This Friday

Happy Black History Month! This year's theme, "African Americans and the Arts," invites us to delve into the rich tapestry of creativity and expression that has shaped our cultural landscape. Mercy parents/guardians are invited to join us for Human Relations Council's upcoming Black History Month Assembly this Friday, February 23 at 10:15am in the Mercy Auditorium.

Resources

African Americans have played a pivotal role in influencing and shaping various art forms, from music and literature to visual arts, dance, and theater. The impact of their creativity is profound, leaving an indelible mark on the arts landscape. This month, we invite you to join us in exploring and celebrating these achievements.

Mrs. Smith, Mercy Director of DEIB, compiled a list of online resources and some local events that offer insights into the remarkable contributions of African Americans in the arts:

• Google Arts & Culture - Black History Month:
• Google Arts & Culture - Black History Month
• National Museum of African American History and Culture:
• NMAAHC Black History Month Digital Toolkit
• PBS LearningMedia - African American Artists:
• PBS LearningMedia - African American Artists
• Spotify - Black History Celebrating the Arts and Culture:
• Spotify - Black History Celebrating the Arts and Culture
• Smithsonian Education - African American Artists:
• Smithsonian Education - African American Artists
• Local Events:
• Hour Detroit Celebrating Black History in the Metro Area

Let's make this month a memorable and enriching experience for our Mercy High School community.

45TH ANNUAL MERCY AUCTION

Online Bidding Access

If you are unable to attend the Auction in person, you can participate in the raffle and silent Auction with a Virtual Bidding Ticket. Online bidding access is available here until Friday, February 23. Don't miss out - the Silent Auction will launch in a couple days!

Raffle

Raffle tickets are now available for purchase for all ticket holders here. Purchase for the chance to win one of our incredible prizes: Diamond Hoop Earrings; Wheelbarrow of Beer; Shopping Spree; Fine Wine Basket.

Live Auction Preview

Check out some of the amazing items up for bid here in this year's Live Auction: Neiman Marcus Shopping Day of Luxury; Olivia Rodrigo Concert Experience; Pappy Van Winkle Bundle; Amalfi Coast for Four; Historic Catholic Church Tour in Detroit and more!

Principal's Pick: M HUB Center for Connection & Collaboration

The 2024 Principal's Pick project is the renovation of N-13 into a state-of-the-art academic hub, promoting innovation, excellence and college preparedness to connect our students with real-world experiences. Proposed upgrades to this 1,500 square foot space which was built in 1964, include 98" Viewsonic 4K LCD display, new functional rotating furniture for guest panelists and students, sound system, two-way conference capabilities, LED lighting, heating, cooling and more. Let's build something extraordinary together. Join us in creating M HUB by donating here today!

OPEN HOUSE

Help spread the word about Mercy Open House! All Mercy families are invited to take a sign and please place prominently in your yard to advertise Open House being held Sunday, March 3. The signs and metal stakes will be available for pick-up at the Flagpole Student Entrance doors, Gymnasium / Auditorium Lobby doors and the Reception Area. Thank you!

MARLIN ATHLETICS

Join us for a Night of Champions!

Join us for a special event as we honor the Golf, Swim & Dive and Volleyball State Championship Teams Friday, February 23 during the half time of the Varsity Basketball Game which starts at 7:00pm. Entry to the event will be $6 at the gate.

The Night of Champions will be a memorable evening as we honor the outstanding achievements of our athletes who were part of our three state championship teams! We want to express our appreciation for their commitment and contribution to the success of our athletic programs. Additionally, we will be presenting the state championship rings to those who ordered them, as a symbol of their remarkable accomplishments. It is a moment that will be cherished and remembered by all who attend. We also want to emphasize that team members who did not order a ring will still be honored at the halftime of the game. We value the efforts and dedication of every member of our teams, and we want to ensure that all athletes feel recognized and appreciated for their contributions. We look forward to seeing you this Friday, February 23! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Brandon Malinowski at bmalinowski@mhsmi.org.

Archery

Bullseye! Please see flyer here for the Archery Team which is run in collaboration with Farmington Hills Special Services, Michigan High School Archery Association and USA Archery at Heritage Park. Register by this Friday, February 23, 2024. Please note there is an additional $25 Mercy booster fee.

Winter Sports in Action

Cheer on Marlin Basketball, Boardercross, Bowling, Figure Skating, Ice Hockey and Ski. Check out the calendar of events here.

2024-25 Pompon Tryouts

Thursday, March 21, 2024, 6:00pm - 8:00pm in the Gym

Friday, March 22, 2024, 6:00pm - 8:00pm in the MZone

Saturday, March 23, 2024, 9:00am - 11:00am in the Gym

Register here by March 18th and contact Coach Pierson at rpierson@hsmi.org with any questions.

2024-25 Dance Team

Interested in joining the Mercy Varsity Dance Team? Please contact bburns@mhsmi.org to get on the email distribution list for upcoming March audition information.

Follow Marlins on Social Media

Be sure to follow Mercy Athletics on Instagram @mercyathletics, Facebook @mercymarlinsathletics and Twitter@mhsmiathletics. GO MARLINS!

FROZEN THE BROADWAY MUSICAL

Mercy Performing Arts Presents:

Frozen The Broadway Musical

March 15 - 17 & March 22 - 24, 2024

Friday & Saturday at 7:30pm, Sunday at 2:00pm

Tickets on sale now!

General Sales $20 adult

$15 student/senior citizen

Learn more about Frozen The Broadway Musical, see performance times and get tickets here.

Senior All Night Party Planning Session



All parents/guardians welcome and encouraged to join in the SANP planning fun! This is a great opportunity to get involved and learn about the event for future graduating classes. Join us for a planning session over Zoom.

THIS Thursday, February 22, 2024

7:00pm

ZOOM HERE

2023-24 Maroon Info Playbook & Board Position Descriptons



Be sure to use the MMC Playbook here for reference on all our yearly protocols, responsibilities, committees, contact info and more. For listing and description of the eight potential MMC Executive Board positions, please reference here.

2nd Annual Trivia Night

All Mercy parents/guardians, alumnae, staff and friends are welcome (21+) for a fun-filled evening.

Saturday, April 13, 2024

Doors Open 6pm

Cash Bar Opens 6:30pm

Trivia Begins 7:00pm

Mercy Gymnasium

$25 each or Table of 8 $200

• Decorate and dress up to represent your favorite College/University sports team!
• Bring snacks for your table and buy drink tickets at the door.
• Plenty of prizes and contests: 50/50 (arm-to-arm $20); buy answers (3 for $5); heads or tails (3 beads for $25)

TICKETS HERE

HELP NEEDED

Event volunteers and donations are needed in all areas. Please consider lending a hand and sign-up here. Students can receive service hours!

DADS' CLUB

Pope Francis Center Volunteer Opportunity

The remaining service date is March 9th at the Pope Francis Center from 6:45am to 11:15am. The names of all volunteers will be reported to Mrs. Bennetts to ensure student service hours are properly recorded.

Sign-up to volunteer at Pope Francis Center here.

Learn more about the Pope Francis Center here. A parking and facility map will be sent to all families who sign-up. Contact Mark Lebednick at 248-722-1313 if you have any questions.

TALK WITH TARPS

Talk with Tarps is open to all students and staff members. Come chat with Dean of Student Affairs Mrs. Tarplin and ask questions, concerns, complaints, compliments, or just have a casual chat.

Tue, 2/27, D1

Tue, 3/5, D6

Tue, 3/12, D4

Thu, 3/21, D5

Thu, 4/11, D6

Tue, 4/23, D1

Thu, 5/2, D2

Tue, 5/14, D3

CLASS OF 2024 REMINDERS

Service Hours Deadline, Reflection Paper & Awards

All students were sent the following information in regard to upcoming deadlines for service hours, reflection paper and awards.

• A minimum of 40 service hours are required for graduation. Consult Mobile Serve to see total service hours recorded. (Please note, hours for NHS and Youth Mercy Associates do not count for graduation.)  

• The service reflection paper is due March 1st and needs to be completed after reaching your minimum of 40 hours of service. See outline for paper here. Contact Mrs. Bennetts for questions or extension request.

• Service awards are given to students for every 100 hours of service. For example, if you had 20 hours of service in 9th grade, 50 hours of service in 11th grade and 30 hours as a senior, you will receive a 100 hour award at the honors assembly. When you hit 200 hours, you will receive the 200 hour award, etc. All hours need to be recorded by April 30th at 11:59 pm to count for service awards. If you received your 100 hour award during an earlier academic year, you will not be called on stage for the honors assembly. Only those earning new certificates will be recognized.

Contact Mrs. Bennetts in the Office of Mission & Ministry for any further questions regarding your service hours, paper and awards.

Last Kairos Retreat

This is a reminder of the 2/7/24 communication here in regard to the last Kairos retreat opportunity for Seniors Tuesday, April 16 - Friday, April 19, 2024. Registration forms here are due by February 21st.

FAFSA Update

This is a reminder of the 2/5/24 communication here in regard to the message from the Michigan College Access Network detailing the delays with the FAFSA filing and processing.

Graduation Gown Approval

In order to participate in the graduation ceremony, every student must have her white graduation gown approved by Dr. Kreger or her assistant, Mrs. Wojcik. Reference the graduation gown requirement letter here. Please bring the garment to the Advancement Office or send a picture of the front and back of the dress, or a picture of you wearing the dress to cdkreger@mhsmi.org or mmwojcik@mhsmi.org.

CONNECT TO MERCY MEDIA

Social Media

Connect to @mercyhighmi, @mercyathletics and @mercyperformingarts on Instagram. Plus, show your own Marlin pride and use the Marlin giphy stickers available on Instagram by searching @mercymarlins when you post to stories! Don't forget to follow @MercyHighSchoolMI, @MercyMarlinsAthletics and @MHSMIPerformingArts on Facebook. Check out list of social media accounts here.

Mobile App

We launched of our brand-new mobile app designed to enhance communication and engagement between our school, parents, students and community! You’ll find quick access and links to resources with the click of an icon. 

To get started:

• Visit the App Store or Google Play
• Search for "Mercy High School - MI"
• Download and install the app
• Open and explore

Thank you for your continued support as we strive to make your Mercy digital experience even more enriching and connected!

Compelled by our Catholic faith and the spirit of the Sisters of Mercy, Mercy High School is a premier college preparatory school that educates and nurtures young women of diverse backgrounds to excel academically, serve compassionately, and lead courageously.