Those who dare to look at those in need through eyes of compassion and love are moved to act. So it was with Edmund Rice who, seeing the dire conditions in which so many impoverished young people were living in Waterford city, was called to respond. The plight of the poor was not the only catalyst for him to assist the needy in Waterford but it acted as stark reminder of his own situation at the time. In his own brokenness, he was moved to recognise the brokenness of those in need around him and to act decisively with compassion.
The story of Edmund Rice looking out a window in Waterford more than two centuries ago is one that been to generations of people throughoutthe world who have had connections with the Christian Brothers and the Edmund Rice Network
Making God Visible Where God Seems Invisible – Philip Pinto
Motivated by a deep sense of compassion based on the gospel, he looked out the window in Waterford, saw the wretched condition of the young people in front of of him, heard the cry of the poor and responded. He saw, judged, and acted - the methodology that lies at the heart of living the social gospel. In so doing he was pointing toward a new and different reality, based not on selfishness but on selflessness, not on power but on service, not on indifference or love of self but on care and compassion and love of the other. The world as it exists is not the only possible world. The ‘culture of walls’ can be replaced by a culture of compassion, love and fraternity. Edmund Rice’s life and example demonstrates that an alternative way of living, based on the vision of a world founded on compassion and love, is achievable. `It is in striving for this new world that the kingdom of God is created and God’s will is done on earth as it is in heaven.
A World and a Church Spiritually Impoverished_Denis Gleeson
Each of the contributors to this book raises important questions and issues. But what is most pertinent in this collection of writings is the collective sense of Edmund Rice’s significant legacy and how we can continue to empower his vision. Their stories demonstrate the capacity to see one’s fellow man and woman - especially those in need - as a brother and sister and that compassion is a universal dimension that lies at the heart of every one of us and enables us to envisage and engender a new, open world. This is what Edmund did as a true disciple of Christ. This is what all who dare to call themselves followers of Christ are urged to do - to go into the world and announce the good news with joy wherever the Spirit leads us
Lifting the Veil and Restoring Compassion to Our Eyes_Aidan Donaldson
Working with the Poorest and the Finest: ” We are What we Are”_Padraig O Fainin
A Pilgrimage for Justice and Peace — Lesley O’Connor
PSG @ Edmund Rice 