“Deeply aware of the Father’s providential presence in his life, Edmund Rice was moved by the Holy Spirit to open his whole heart to Christ present and appealing to him in the poor.”
~ Spirituality Statement.
In 2026, The Brothers will hold a Spirituality Conference whose aims include:
Each region is participating in a ‘synodal’ process of generative conversations with men and women who share Edmund Rice’s charism that will feed into this conference.
Here in the European Region, a working group have devised a process to ‘heed the melody’ of the hearts of Edmund’s people. Watch the video to see how we have gone about this.
In England we have held a couple of conversations and offered the chance for Edmund’s people to feed into this process.
What are we hearing so far?
How our spirituality is affected by … the World Story:
The current state of the world indeed presents numerous challenges that seem overwhelming, yet within these struggles lies the potential for change and renewal. The themes of love, compassion, and a search for deeper meaning, are crucial as we navigate through division and uncertainty. It is vital to embrace a spirit of inclusivity and openness, allowing for diverse perspectives and experiences to shape our understanding and response to the crises we face. By fostering dialogue, supporting mental health, and promoting education rooted in values of compassion and justice, we can contribute to healing our suffering planet and its people.
The Edmund Story:
The legacy of Edmund Rice and the spirit of his charism continue to resonate strongly within the global community, particularly in EREBB, ERI and schools. His life serves as a profound example of faith in action, demonstrating the importance of social justice, compassion, and the transformative power of education. Despite challenges and potential fragmentation within the congregation, the values he instilled remain relevant and vital for creating a better world. By emphasizing the importance of community, personal relationships, and individual worth, we can continue to embody the essence of Edmund’s vision in our contemporary context.
Our Own Stories:
Our feedback captured the interplay of spirituality, personal growth, and the significance of community and connection. The journey of balancing various roles and responsibilities while nurturing faith and hope is a profound testament to resilience and love in our Edmund Rice community. Embracing change, appreciating the present, and fostering the values instilled by Edmund Rice are all vital components of lives dedicated to service and contemplation. The ongoing search for meaning amidst life’s challenges is a powerful narrative that we know can inspire others in their own journeys.
Would you like to contribute? If you would like to contribute to this sharing of how your own life story and that of Blessed Edmund’s intersect, you can do so by responding to the questions on this Google form.
O God, we thank you for the life of Edmund Rice.
He opened his heart to Christ present in those oppressed by poverty and injustice.
May we follow his example of faith and generosity.
Grant us the courage and compassion of Edmund as we seek to live lives of love and service.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.