By Sister Erencia Saipweirik
Catherine McAuley reminds us that “The tender Mercy of God has given us one another.” In a world that often values productivity and busyness, Mercy invites us to slow down and recognize the sacred gift of presence. To be rooted in Mercy is to make space for one another to listen, accompany, encourage, and simply be present. Often what appears to be “wasted time” is, in fact, holy time: moments when relationships are nurtured, burdens are shared, and God’s presence is revealed through human connection.
As a Sister of Mercy, I have come to appreciate that some of the most meaningful moments in ministry are not found in accomplishing tasks or meeting goals but simply in being present to others. The ministry of presence is a sacred gift that allows us to reflect God’s compassionate love through attentive listening, companionship and genuine care.
I have experienced this ministry in many ordinary moments: sitting with family members, parents, friends, and coworkers who are grieving; caring for young children and those with different abilities; visiting people and sisters who are ill; sharing a quiet meal with community members; or simply listening to someone share their story without feeling the need to rush in with solutions. In these encounters, I learned that people often do not need answers as much as they need someone willing to accompany them. By simply being there, I communicate that they are valued, loved and not alone.
The “gift of wasting time together” has also been an important part of my religious life and ministry. What may appear unproductive from the outside often becomes a grace-filled opportunity for relationship and connection. Spending unhurried time with my sisters, laughing together, sharing stories or sitting in silence has strengthened our sense of community and deepened our bonds. Similarly, in ministry, taking time to be with those with whom we serve and work without an agenda or expectation creates trust and open space for God’s presence to be revealed.
These experiences have taught me that mercy is often expressed not through grand actions but through simple acts of accompaniment. Jesus himself practiced this ministry by walking with people, listening to them and sharing their joys and struggles. As a Sister of Mercy, I am called to continue this example by offering my presence as a gift. Through these moments of “wasting time together,” I have discovered that what seems like wasted time is often holy time. Time in which relationships are nurtured, hearts are healed, and God’s love becomes tangible.
The ministry of presence reminds me that being with people is just as important as doing for them. It is through these ordinary yet profound encounters that I continue to experience the transformative power of mercy in my life and ministry.