Mercedarians

Mercedarians is the popular name for the Order of Our Lady of Mercy, derived from the Spanish word merced (mercy). Members have been known also as the Knights of St. Eulalia and Nolascans. Pius XI bestowed the name by which the institute has since been known officially: Order of the Blessed Virgin Mary for the Ransom of Captives. St. Peter Nolasco founded the order in 1218 with the twofold purpose of tending the sick and rescuing Christians who had been taken prisoners by the Moors. The Mercedarians owed their rule to St. Raymond of Penafort (1175-1275). In addition to the usual three vows, a fourth was added pledging them to offer themselves as hostages, if needed, for the redemption of captives.

From the description of Mercedari, 1670-1747. (University of Michigan). WorldCat record id: 145567954