Director’s foreword

Throughout life we are all faced with different challenges. Some challenges can help us progress as people, others can cause pain or hurt. Either way, as people I feel we are supposed to learn a lesson when we are faced with challenges. I strongly believe that everything happens for a reason.

A few weeks ago, as I sat with Brother Ignatius Chincotta in the kitchen at “Woodeaves” having a cup of tea, listening to stories of his time in Africa, I was struck by the fact that no matter what Ignatius faced: as he tried to set up a school in Liberia; or dealt with real deprivation in other parts of Africa; or when a plane he was in crashed, he approached it all calmly, serenely and with humility. Nothing fazed him. He believed in divine providence, and he believed in hope. No matter where he went, he brought hope and love; he planted seeds which are still flourishing to this day.

It is such a privilege to work in the Edmund Rice Office at “Woodeaves” as it means we get to spend time with inspirational Brothers who have set an example of love and generosity. They bring hope to a world that can often seem hopeless.

Pope Francis said to the De La Salle Chapter in 2022 “You cannot give to the young what you do not have within yourself. The Christian educator is first of all a witness, and he is a teacher to the extent that he is a witness.”

We give thanks for the witness of Brother Arthur Francis Ignatius Chincotta, who lived a life devoted to ‘The least, the last and the lost.’

May we, in this Advent season, follow his example of love and service as we seek justice for those most affected by poverty and injustice across our world.

May the blessing of the child born in the stable of Bethlehem be with you and your families during this Advent season.