Edmund Rice Network (SA) Logo

Oceania Network 
Newsletter September 2011

Build the Bridge Project (SA)

 What is the Edmund Rice Network? 

At the heart of the Edmund Rice Network is Edmund Rice’s Vision
PRESENCE        COMPASSION         LIBERATION 

There are many arms and legs of the Edmund Rice Network. It is an inclusive network of groups, institutions and people.

The one thing that binds us, is the inspiration we draw from the Vision of Edmund Rice : calling us to be attentive and reflective in seeing injustice, being present, and taking action.

The people involved in the network come from all occupations, generations, cultures and spiritual backgrounds.

Formal groups within the network in South Australia are: the Christian Brothers, St Pauls College, Christian Brothers College, Rostrevor College, FAME—Flexible Accredited Meaningful Education, Edmund Rice Associates (SA), Edmund Rice Camps (SA), Edmund Rice Volunteers and our Youth Adult Community.

There are also many individuals who are part of the Network and are connected in a less formal way; their connectedness
is often one of relationship rather than employment or attendance as part of a formal group.

What do we do?

We are groups, organisations, schools and people who embrace and are challenged by Edmund’s generosity, his courage, his humanity, and his presence with those whom society has marginalised.

We want to provide the space to reflect, celebrate and nourish your journey, hear your stories and support each other.

Like Edmund, the actions and reflections of members of the Edmund Rice Network make a real difference to the lives of others. In practical terms, our groups, organisations and schools are focused on education, building resilience in those marginalised by society, breaking down boundaries and advocating for justice.

Individuals within the Edmund Rice Network can participate in this work, either as volunteers or paid staff. Individuals from South Australia can also participate beyond our borders by volunteering in our interstate and overseas organisations, or by participating in immersion experiences to expand their understanding and capacity to respond to “the cry of the poor and the earth” (Oceania Directions 2008-2014).

Just as it was vital for Edmund Rice, these endeavours are supported by engaging in reflective practice and formation experiences.     

Who was Edmund Rice?

Edmund Ignatius Rice was born in Ireland in 1762 during Penal Times. He was a fortunate Catholic because he receive a good education both at home and in schools. This education enabled Edmund to join his uncle’s successful export business in Waterford.

An educated and wealthy businessman, he took over his uncle’s business and at the age of 23 he married Mary Elliott in 1785. Tragedy struck in January 1789, for his wife died after giving birth to a disabled daughter, Mary. Edmund's life was never to be the same.

He became increasingly disturbed by the life of the poor of Ireland.  Looking at the world of his time, he saw people who were very poor, people neglected by others, people who were lonely, afraid and without direction in their lives. Looking into his own heart, Edmund realised that he was being called to do something to make life better, especially for neglected young people.

Edmund eventually sold his business and dedicated his life to walking with and empowering the marginalised. He responded to the needs of his time. By 1825 Edmund Rice and 30 Christian Brothers (the religious order he established) were educating, free of charge, 5,500 boys in 12 different towns and cities.  Many were also being clothed and fed.

Christian Brothers and members of the Edmund Rice Network now educate and support vulnerable and marginalised people in 29 countries around the world.     

Where is the Edmund Rice Network?

The Edmund Rice Network is not limited to South Australia, or even to Australia.

Our Oceania Province includes Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Timor Leste, and the Cook Islands. The Edmund Rice Network is at work in 5 Province and 2 Regions covering 29 countries. 

We gather for work, celebration and reflective practice all over the globe.

If you would like to get involved, or are interested in finding out more about the Edmund Rice Network, please contact:     

Natasha Siebert 
Regional Networking Coordinator (SA)
103 George Street
Thebarton  SA  5031
Phone: 08 8354 2100
Email: nmsiebert@edmundrice.org