This statement seeks to describe the Edmund Rice Network in Oceania at this time.
It has been written by the Regional Networking Coordinators, informed by their engagement with and reflection of the work of groups and individuals in their regions. It is a draft document, and should be read in conjunction with the Oceania Province Missiology Statement and the Oceania Province Edmund Rice Ministry Statement.
November 2010
The Edmund Rice Network in Oceania at this time
The Edmund Rice Network in Oceania encompasses all groups, communities, ministries, schools and individuals who identify with, share in, or are in intentional relationship with the Edmund Rice Story of seeking justice and dignity for all life.
Edmund Rice groups and individuals place importance on networking together. The aim of networking is to enhance our capacity to bring about liberation and justice for all life.
Inherent in the diversity of these groups and individuals, there are numerous expressions of participation in the Edmund Rice Network.
In response to the needs of our time, groups and individuals in the Edmund Rice Network give contemporary expression to Edmund’s generosity, humanity and presence with others.
People connect with the Edmund Rice Network at different times for various lengths of time; expressions of participation range from life-long to temporary.
The invitation to be part of this unfolding story is always open.
Many of the groups within the Edmund Rice Network in Oceania embrace these values:
PRESENCE ~ We are alive to the wonder of all creation opening us to intimacy with the Divine Mystery.
COMPASSION ~ We open our hearts to and stand in solidarity with the suffering world.
LIBERATION ~ We seek to free and enliven our world groaning under the weight of injustice.
Groups in the Edmund Rice Network seek to express these values in various ways and forms.
Characteristics of the Edmund Rice Network in Oceania at this time
- The Edmund Rice Network is about people and relationships, and like the nature of organic things, it is constantly evolving.
- Edmund Rice groups seek to be hospitable and inclusive; and engage in their own forms of reflective practice.
- Edmund Rice groups seek to provide spaces to reflect, celebrate and nourish people’s journeys, hear people’s stories and support each other.
The Evolution of the Edmund Rice Network from a Congregational Perspective
Johannesburg 1996
- The Chapter recognises and joyfully affirms the emergence, in many parts of the world, of individuals and groups who are inspired by the vision of Edmund Rice and express his charism in ways appropriate to their situation.
Rome 2002
- The 2002 Rome Chapter accepts the name Edmund Rice Network as a more accurate description of the group than Edmund Rice Family.
- The development of the many expressions of the Edmund Rice charism fills us with joy and brings new life and energy to the Congregation.
- …… our view of the Edmund Rice Network is advancing towards an even deeper appreciation of what is unfolding and of the gift of our companions in Edmund’s spirit.
Munnar 2008
- We affirm that the Christian Brothers are a group within the Edmund Rice Network.
- We recognise that networking, the building of relationships and communication... are the keys to developing the wider Edmund Rice Network.
- We affirm and acknowledge that the wider Edmund Rice Network encompasses all those (groups and individuals) who identify with, share in, or are in intentional relationship with the charism of Edmund Rice.
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