We are glad to share with all of our readers from within our own English network and beyond, some of the news from a busy Autumn and Winter term. It has been a period of many highlights and of challenges for all. From inspections and a lock-down, through to beautiful trips and celebrations – each of the schools has had its ups and downs. Launching the Gaudete Trust with our schools has been a big step forward for the Edmund Rice education team; moving into close collaboration with our partner orders and becoming an extended family of 17 schools holds much promise and potential for a future of outstanding Catholic religious order education with Christ at its heart.
Our usual formation programs for staff and students have been well-received and our visit from both justice Desk Africa and Pratyek must be mentioned as truly inspirational and change-making experiences for our network this term. Advocacy and social justice work in our schools continues to be a source of great pride and we are humbled by students’ compassion and commitment to love and service in their communities.
We thank the staff in all of our schools, as we approach the end of the first term, for their continued commitment to delivering an outstanding Edmund Rice education and for going the extra mile in terms of facilitating the wide range of opportunities for students to engage in activities that promote global connections and a more just world – such as immersions, classroom partnerships, and the Youth Ambassador program.
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.