THE Sisters of Mercy celebrated 130 years in Ballarat yesterday afternoon with a special mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral in front of more than 500 people.The service also recognised a new step in their history in Australia as the Ballarat East Diocese prepare to join the new Institute of Sisters of Mercy of Australia and Papua New Guinea, which will come into existence on December 12.Sister Anne McMillan RSM said the day was a fitting way to mark two very special occasions.“There were many people present from far and wide who had met and worked with the sisters over the years and all found the celebration a wonderful experience,” she said.