
Richard Kerr-Bell has been the Kaihautu/Mission Administrator since November 2017. Based in Dunedin he travels to meet, discuss and work with Boards and Leaders at all levels of Whanau Mercy/Mercy Ministries around Mission, education, engagement, and Integrity. Richard has an interest in strategy, leadership, Maori Spirituality and coaching football.

Me whai whakaaro nui ki te manaaki tangata, me whakapau wā ki a ia.
A good beginning is of great importance. You must waste some time with visitors – Catherine McAuley
After spending many years teaching in Auckland, Te Aroha and Samoa, Sr Teresa Anderson rsm, had the opportunity to undertake the role of Mission Coordinator in a Mercy aged care ministry. As a Sister of Mercy and a member of Te Waka Tiaki Mission Team, the privilege of working alongside wonderful people who are deeply committed to the work of Ngā Whaea Atawhai o Aotearoa Sisters of Mercy NZ inspires her. While the way of ‘delivering’ mission continues to change with the times, the essence of the work remains – to support the vision, mission and values of the Sisters of Mercy, offering education and reflection opportunities for all involved. She supports the development of mercy charism and values in mercy facilities and other mercy ministries.

Dennis Horton has been on the mission team for 18 years. Currently a mission writer, he prepares a monthly reflection and prayer resource, Imaging Mercy Today, which is distributed to Mercy boards before being posted online. He has supported mission teams especially in the aged care sector, with particular focus on mercy’s commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and care of Earth. He currently serves as a member of Mercy Global Action in Aotearoa, with a special interest in addressing the effects of climate change and rising sea levels on Pacific Island communities.

Kay Ryan joined Te Waka Tiaki Mission team in 2015. She brings several years experience working at Atawhai Mercy Hospice. As well as working with Te Waka Tiaki team events, Kay provides Mission education and support for the Mercy Healthcare ministries of hospice and residential aged care. She works to build effective relationships with managers, staff and volunteers, to ensure education and engagement in Mercy Mission and values, is a high priority for all these serving our more vulnerable communities. She has a passion for creating sustainable practices that support all life on papatuanuku, our Mother Earth.
