Sisters of Mercy Celebrate 105 Years of Service to Western North Carolina
The Sisters of Mercy of North Carolina are celebrating their 105 years of service to the people of Western North Carolina this month.
Asheville, NC (PRWEB) November 21, 2005 -- November 2005 marks 105 years of ministry and service by the Sisters of Mercy in Asheville and Western North Carolina. Known primarily for their work in providing medical care for the region at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Sisters of Mercy Urgent Care Centers, the Sisters also offer diagnosis and treatment of mental health issues and substance abuse problems at their ARP/Phoenix centers in addition to running a thrift store.
Sister Maria Goretti Weldon, one of the three remaining Sisters of Mercy in Asheville, believes that a primary reason for their longevity and success in Western North Carolina is the presence of Sisters throughout the years who have lived up to the name. In addition, however, the support of the Sisters’ ministries by the local community has been vital. “Throughout the years the people of Buncombe County and the surrounding area have supported us in fulfilling our compassionate care ministries, especially providing quality health care to all those in need,” said Sister Maria Goretti. “My hope is that we will be able to continue to serve the wonderful people of Western North Carolina for many years to come.”
The number of patient visits during the last year provided by all Sisters of Mercy Services Corp. services totaled more than 200,000. Tim Johnston, who recently became president and CEO, foresees a bright future for the organization. “After only five weeks here, I’m still in an information gathering mode,” said Johnston. “But one thing is clear: We’re committed to the continued success of all of the Sisters of Mercy sponsored ministries in this area, and our strategic plan for 2006 will reflect that.”
Milestones in the Sisters of Mercy’s service to this region include:
- Sisters of Mercy Services Corp.—1900-Present
o St. Joseph’s Tuberculosis Sanatorium—1900-1938
o St. Joseph’s Hospital—1938-1998
o Mountain Health Services—1979-Present
o Sisters of Mercy Urgent Care—1985-Present
o McAuley Foundation—1986-present
o ARP/Phoenix--1988-Present
o Sisters of Mercy Thrift Store—2002-Present
Visit www.urgentcares.org/About_Us/history.html for more information about the Sisters of Mercy in Western North Carolina.
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