Our new ERI School Youth Ambassadors gathered for a formation day with their staff at Edmund Rice office earlier this term. Joined by Br Brain Bond by zoom from Geneva, students learned about advocacy and the rights-based approach to social justice issues. We considered the difference between charity and justice, thought about campaigns we might run this term with our groups and how we can collaborate with our local school’s network as well as globally through the ERI Student meets.
Since our formation day we have met again online and there are plans to visit one another’s group sessions in schools to share ideas and good practice.
Groups have been campaigning on issues around homelessness and asylum this term.
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.