On 12th October we celebrate 200 years since the Brothers first set foot on English soil to bring Christian Brothers education to young people here. Edmund Rice himself came to Preston to make the initial arrangements and 2 young brothers were sent to St Wilfrid’s School, Preston. Initially educating the poor Irish immigrants and later, establishing their own schools to educate a new Catholic lay leadership, the brothers have impacted and influenced many students, staff and families over their time here. We thank all the brothers for their energy, spiritual commitment and compassion to those on the margins over the past 2 centuries.
We share a prayer for in gratitude for their commitment to catholic education in this country.
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.