Edmund Rice Network
Br John (Jock) McGee cfcMargaret Rice Award for PresenceAlive to the wonder of all creation opening us to intimacy with the Mystery of God For years, Jock has been known as a person of outstanding integrity, deep compassion and a true humility. A quiet achiever as a teacher, he had the unqualified respect of his students. In recent years, Jock could well have settled into a quiet retirement in Adelaide. Instead, he recognised the needs of those around him – the indigenous, refugees and other marginalised groups. It is obvious to those who know him that Jock has a special rapport with indigenous people. He has given of himself to their welfare, particularly through his work at the Otherway Centre. His genuine concern for others has earned him the trust and confidence of many. Although suffering from physical infirmity in recent years, Jock bears this with courage and does not allow it to interfere with his mental energy, encouragement and practical support to the disadvantaged. Jock’s continued commitment to be present to the students of St Pauls, and previously at FAME, is testament to his life as a man Living the Edmund Rice Vision. In all respects, he is an outstanding example of compassionate support to people of all backgrounds and beliefs. Jock stands in solidarity with the marginalised through his understanding of their needs, and his actions to offer support and relief. He demonstrates leadership in being an exemplar through his actions. He has developed active and effective relationships with the vulnerable who in turn recognise his advocacy on their behalf.
Mr Justin ChungNano Nagle Award for CompassionOpening our hearts to and standing in solidarity with the suffering world Justin attended Rostrevor as a student, and eventually returned as a staff member. He became involved with the Indian Pilgrimage and eventually became the pilgrimage leader. During this time, he forged links with many Christian Brothers in India, and many clients of the Brothers. When he resigned as leader of the pilgrimage to focus on his forthcoming marriage, he continued his work by going to Fred’s Van on a regular basis and encouraging students to go with him. He used and shared great compassion in his role as middle school Barron House Leader particularly when dealing with boys who were in trouble. Two years ago, he applied for, and won the position of Service Learning Coordinator. In this, he has embraced the breakfast programme run on Wednesday mornings at Wandana School. Most recently, Rostrevor sent Justin on an African experience run by Br John Carrig as an insight into the work of Christian Brothers in East Africa. He has presented a moving and engaged account of what touched his heart there – Barron House gave him the first Justin is a wonderful and engaging presence wherever he goes. His ability to be in solidarity with those around him is makes him an excellent role model to the students and staff as they witness Justin putting into action what he believes. Justin is someone who walks the walk and talks the talk. Br Reg Whitely cfcAmbrose Treacy Award for LiberationFreeing and enlivening a world groaning under the weight of injustice Reg Whitely has been the constant moving spirit behind the Edmund Rice presence in the southern suburbs of Adelaide for the past sixteen years. Reg represents the embodiment of Edmund Rice ministry in southern area. He does this in many ways every day: With the young people: Reg is fully present to them each day. Testimony to his capacity to be with young people, who find it challenging to form positive relationships with others, is the genuine affection he receives from them when he enters the room. His unassuming and gentle nature encourages a culture of acceptance that helps them relate to him. He has a passion for their education, learning and real outcomes for their efforts. Reg understands and promotes the liberating qualities of proper assessment of students in these programmes. Reg is the most wonderful storyteller and uses this technique in his support for staff. He laughs with them and helps them through difficult days. He writes beautiful and poignant reflections that enable all staff to see the vision of the ministry and deepen their understanding of Edmund, the Brothers and the Edmund Rice Network. He can certainly “bring people with him. Reg helps those of us around him who are no longer active in ministry to remain engaged with our faith and our relationship to Edmund. He helps others feel connected and able to re-engage as they can around other commitments. He reminds people of the work they have done, and the potential into the future to do more. Reg has had significant health issues in recent years and one could be excused for thinking he has reached his ‘used by date’, but each working day Reg is there quietly working in the program. Reg can see the goodness in each person he encounters.
Living the Vision Award Recipients 2010
Tags edmund rice network South Australia Christian Brothers College Shaun Clarke Wisdom Group Rostrevor College St Pauls College Edmund Rice Camps FAME Learning for Life Associates
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<a href="http://www.edmundrice.org/Living-the-Vision-Award-Recipients-2010">Living the Vision Award Recipients 2010</a>
