Christian Brothers Volunteer Program
http://www.ercbna.org/volunteers/volunteers.asp
PURPOSE
The Christian Brothers Volunteer Program sponsored by the North American Province of the Congregation of Christian Brothers offers single, men and women between the ages of 21 and 26 the opportunity to:
· grow as a person
· experience community living
· work with the marginalized in educational and social service ministries.
DESCRIPTION
Volunteers commit themselves for one year to live in community with the Brothers and other volunteers during which time they become partners with the Brothers in community, mission and ministry.
SERVICE
Volunteers, using their personal gifts and academic preparation, are involved in a variety of educational and social service ministries.
LOCATIONS
Opportunities for both men and women are available in Bonita Springs, Florida, New Orleans, Luisiana, and Ontario, Canada. Opportunities for men only are available in Grenada, BWI.

QUALIFICATIONS
Applicants must meet the following criteria to qualify for the program:
o be single
o have Bachelor's Degree or comparable work experience
o be in good physical and mental health
o have a desire to work with the marginalized and those in need
o be willing to live and to participate fully in community life

THE PROGRAM PROVIDES
o health insurance
o transportation at the beginning and end of the service
o room and board
o monthly stipend
o AmeriCorps Education Awards eligibility for sites in the United States
FOR INFORMATION REGARDING THE PROGRAM CONTACT
Brother Bob Koppes, CFC
Christian Brothers Volunteer Program
10001 South Pulaski Road, Suite 105
Chicago, IL 60655-3356
Telephone: 773-298-2520
Fax: 773-429-4381
Website: http://www.ercbna.org/volunteers/volunteers.asp
Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
The Christian Brother Volunteer Program is a member of CNVS. Click link below for more information.

 

The Congregation Chapter of the Christian Brothers in Munnar, India called members of the Edmund Rice Network (ERN) to "open our hearts to the cry of the earth and the poor and be moved to prophetic action through advocacy and works for justice."

Oceania Province and Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA) staff are invited to engage in solidarity with people from the majority world by partnering with the Province's ministries and programs and working alongside them as an Edmund Rice Volunteer.

Volunteer opportunities are presently available in:
· East Timor;
· Cook Islands;
· Murgon, Queensland;
· Mt Archer, Queensland;
· Philippines;
· Tanzania; and
· Kenya

Contact Information

General Enquiries & Papua New Guinea
Martin Kelly
Phone: +61 73621 9673
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New Zealand
Br. Damien Price 021 02321011
Sam Drumm [North Island] 021 341801
Cathy Harrison [South Island] 03 9607670
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New South Wales and Canberra
Br Gerard Brady
Phone: +61298103922
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Victoria and Tasmania
Br Damien Price
Phone +61 423024649
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Queensland and Northern Territory
Mr Gerard Keating
Phone:  +61 7 33272246
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South Australia and West Australia
Mr Richard Mavros
Phone:  +61 8 9365 2821       
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Beginnings

Edmund Rice Camps originated at a Christian Brothers School in Melbourne in 1979 to assist the development of community between new students arriving from Vietnam and other Asian nations and existing students at the College. The concept and program was so successful that they began running camps for children from disadvantaged and marginalised backgrounds soon after. In 1987 a group of young adults and Christian Brothers from Sydney headed to Melbourne to experience a camp and in January 1988, camps began in NSW. Since then Edmund Rice Camps have spread to various parts of the world.

The camps take their name from the founder of the Christian Brothers, Edmund Ignatius Rice, who dedicated his life to working, living with, and providing opportunities for, the disadvantaged children of Waterford, Ireland. True to his spirit, we try to do the same in a different way and in a different time.

Volunteers

Staffed by young adult volunteers (18 -35), who participate in all aspects of the programme, the camps aim to provide disadvantaged children with a safe, positive, fun and rewarding holiday experience. Volunteer Leaders are asked to be attentive to the needs of the children and to act as positive role models for them. The camps place young adult volunteer Leaders in roles of friendship and leadership. In being responsible for the children, it is hoped they grow in living skills, responsibility, and knowledge of their own gifts and talents. In doing this, the reality of the phrase, "for it is in giving that we receive", will come to us.

Development

Since 1979 Edmund Rice Camps have gone from a small scale camping programme into a constantly changing and challenging community, within the Christian Brothers Oceania and the developing Edmund Rice Network. From the almost accidental beginnings in Melbourne the camps have spread to all states of Australia as well as New Zealand, South Africa, Tanzania, Ireland, parts of South America and England. Many Australian leaders have combined a camp into their travels.

The success of the camps is based on very simple foundations: We aim to create a just environment based on respect, dignity and sensitivity of the individual, all are equally valued and supported, and we are only as great as the other people around us.

 

Our Vision

Edmund Rice Camps are inspired by the gospel-based action and vision of Edmund Rice. Our fundamental premise is that every person has the right to be treated with dignity, respect and love. By creating an environment on camp where this is possible, we hope to make a difference to children and to engage leaders in reflective action for others. In so doing we hope to work towards a more just society.

Our Mission
We aim to provide a quality summer camp experience to children in a way that allows both children and young leaders to more fully realise their potential. 
We aim to offer children:
•  a week of fun-filled activities in a safe and friendly environment
•  the chance to grow in self-esteem and confidence
•  a chance to make new friends

We aim to offer young adult leaders:
•  an experience of working together as a team for the good of children
•  an opportunity to develop skills and confidence as leaders
•  a chance to explore their spirituality and increase their awareness of social justice issues.

What does a camp involve?
•  A non-residential week-long summer camp for kids ( 8-12 years old)
•  A wide range of activities - sports, team games, treasure hunts, outings, arts & crafts and more
•  Activities organised and coordinated by young adult leaders ( aged 17-25) under the close supervision of      experienced adults
•  One-to-one ratio of leaders to children
•  No charge for participants on camp.

Why are they called Edmund Rice Camps?
Edmund Rice was a wealthy merchant who lived in Waterford city during the late 1700s and early 1800s. He was a man of deep faith in God and after his wife died in a tragic accident he sold up his business to care for and educate hundreds of destitute street children in the city. Other men, inspired by his example, joined him in offering their lives to the service of the poor. The Presentation Brothers and the Christian Brothers were both founded to carry on this work of offering education to those with no access to it. Edmund Rice Camps share in this gospel-based vision of Edmund by offering new opportunities and positive experiences to children today. 

The story of camps so far ...
Camps began in Australia in 1979, and are now also held in South Africa, New Zealand, Tanzania and UK 
The first camp in Ireland was run by members of the Presentation Family in Cork in 1998. Camps now take place in Cork, Dublin, Omagh, Kilkenny, Waterford, Liverpool, Stoke and Wirral. 

Contact Details: Co-ordinator:  Chris Glavey
Email:  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it        Tel:  (353)  01 819 6781

Edmund Rice Camps Ireland

The Edmund Rice Summer Camps are conducted in Ireland annually. In 2008 Camps were conducted at five venues during July, namely Kilkenny, Dublin, Omagh, Cork and Waterford.

Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA) is the newly created model for the governance of schools for which the Christian Brothers are Trustees. There are 38 schools across Australia included in this group who "share an abiding commitment to the Gospel, to ministry in the Church and to the Charism of Edmund."
9 The Vaucluse
Richmond Vic 3121
Phone: (03) 9426 3200
Fax: (03) 9426 32222
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The Christian Brothers handed on its network of 96 schools in the Republic of Ireland to a lay trust  - namely the Edmund Rice Schools Trust. This new trust assumed responsibility on September 1st 2008 for the Primary and Secondary schools, 35,000 students and 2,700 teachers. 
For the Christian Brothers in Ireland, it marked the end of an era in terms of management of schools. from 1804 - 2008
The Chairperson of the Board of Members is Mr Justice Peter Kelly.
The Chairperson of the Board of Directors is Mr Pat Diggins.
The new Chief Executive Officer is Mr Gerry Bennett.
Edmund Rice Schools Trust - Northern Ireland
The Christian Brothers handed on their schools in Northern Ireland to a lay trust - namely the Edmund Rice Schools Trust. This new Trust assumed responsibility for the educational ethos and operation of its nine schools and came into effect on February 1st, 2009. The launch of the Trust took place at a special ceremony on Tuesday, January 20th 2009.

The Edmund Rice Awards recognise young people who give of their time, energy and commitment to those around them. They encourage young people to respond to the needs of others in their school and local community. 
Core of the Scheme
Showing concern for other people is at the very core of the Awards Scheme. In responding to these concerns, the teacher encourages the students as they seek appropriate and practical responses in meeting the needs within their own local community. This in turn, will impact on their school, creating a caring community. 
A minimum of twenty hours of social justice work must be completed by the student. Work needs to be spread over a number of weeks or months to allow for ongoing reflection on the work. 
In the context of the Edmund Rice Awards, reflection might be understood as thoughtful consideration of work done, in the light of the Gospel and the person of Jesus Christ, who inspired Edmund.
It involves taking a realistic look at our world, our society and at ourselves, so as to be inspired into action for others. 
Vision
Edmund Rice looked into his own heart. He took his inner journey of faith very seriously. 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. He realised that God was leading him to do something to make life better, especially for neglected young people. He prayed, he struggled and he sought advice from others about what he might do. He wanted to make a difference. Within a community of Brothers, he sought to effect radical change for the good of his fellow human beings. 
Through the Edmund Rice Awards, students are opened up to similar realities of social injustice and marginalisation. Like Edmund, their actions and reflection can make a real difference to the lives of others in their community. The students are also influenced by their experience, thus enabling them to understand more deeply the connections between life and Christian values. Students who undertake this challenge learn about themselves, their abilities, their world and their faith. 

Social Justice Activity
To be nominated for an Edmund Rice Award students must engage in a social justice activity within their local community and spend time reflecting on this activity. 
Students are then invited to attend an Awards ceremony at the end of the academic year, where they will have an opportunity to share about the social justice work they were involved in and receive an Edmund Rice Award certificate. 
Criteria
1.  A minimum of 20 hours voluntary service in school or in the community is required. It is the responsibility of the teacher to ensure that participants fulfil the hours of work. 
2.  Service activities undertaken by students should have some social justice component and should allow for students to work with and for others in their school community or local community. 
3.  Ongoing reflection, led by their teacher and supported by the Awards Coordinator, on the person of Edmund Rice and on their own voluntary work. 
4.  The types of service in which participants engage should be in line with the vision of the Scheme and appropriate to the abilities and maturity of the participants. 
5.  An Awards ceremony is held in April/May and participants are required to attend to receive their Edmund Rice Award. 

Sample Projects Undertaken:
* Mentoring and tutoring young children in academic subjects and sport
* Assisting a voluntary organisation e.g. Meals on Wheels, St Vincent de Paul
* Visiting older people and the sick
* Assisting people with special needs
* Helping in a soup kitchen or charity shop
* Training or coaching a club of young people who require extra support and assistance
* Organising a music group for the benefit of the school or community
* Peer ministry or Faith Friends. 

Annual Award Ceremonies
The Award Ceremonies take place at eight regional venues during April and May each year. 
Students with their teachers from participating schools in the region attend. 
Each student group make a short presentation, outlining the nature of their project. 
Certificates are awarded to each student in the group and to the school. 
At the ceremonies the work undertaken by the students is recognised, as well as the contribution of their teachers. 

Contact Details:  Co-ordinator:  Ms Anne Reilly
Email:  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it        Tel:  (353)  01 819 6781

Evona Rebelo is employed on a part-time basis to do charism promotion in the schools of the Southern Africa District.  Evona's email address is This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
One of the challenges that Evona faces is to develop some sort of co-ordination around the Edmund Rice Societies (ERS).  At present the only co-ordination that exists is on an annual basis when the rally takes place.  The past rally was planned and co-ordinated by one of the teachers from our school in Bloemfontein, Janelle de Necker.  Janelle can be contacted through the school at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Edmund Rice Associates (ERA) Southern Africa
Edmund Rice Associates (ERA) Southern Africa has been formed in the Bloemfontein area of South Africa. This group consists of young adults who have left school and still have a yearning to be in contact with the charism of Edmund Rice.  Three members of this ERA attended the most recent assembly of the Southern Africa District.  A contact for this group is Napo Rakauoane - This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  .

The Edmund Rice Camps (ERC) Southern Africa
The Edmund Rice Camps (ERC) continue to operate successfully from our Centre in Stellenbosch, South Africa.  The co-ordinator is Jennifer Fredericks and she can be contacted at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Lest We Forget
The Edmundian Society includes men who devoted some portion of their lives as members of the Congregation of Christian Brothers, a religious congregation of men founded by Blessed Edmund Rice in Ireland in 1820. Whether these men left after a short time in pre-novitiate or novitiate training, or whether they left after a long time of teaching ministry in the Brothers' schools, a bond remains. While each individual's journey is unique, there has been a common recognition that the time spent living in community was a major influence in one's life.
Edmundians are members of the Edmund Rice Family Network, a wide circle of Brothers, Associates, former Brothers, students, families, friends and benefactors. The Edmund Rice Family Network realize as the Christian Brothers review their missions for the twenty-first century, that there is an increasing number of men and women who have been deeply affected by the vision of Blessed Edmund Rice and the work of his followers. Many of the Edmundians now reflect on how much they have learned from their study of the life and spirit of Blessed Edmund Ignatius Rice who lived from 1762-1844. The beatification of Brother Rice by Pope John Paul II in October 1996 demonstrated that the Roman Catholic Church has recognized the exceptional holiness of this man, described in the beatification ceremony as "businessman, widower, father, teacher, founder and friend of the poor." The Christian Brothers and the Presentation Brothers recognize Blessed Edmund I. Rice as their Founder. The two congregations minister to the people in twenty-six countries located on every continent.

THE EDMUNDIANS SOCIETY
The Christian Brothers first came from Ireland to North America over a hundred years ago and are now ministering in Canada, Western and Eastern United States as well as in the West Indies, South America, Europe, Africa and Southeast Asia.
Over the years many of the Brothers who left the Congregation of Christian Brothers retained their friendships with Brothers and former Brothers. In many places there were informal gatherings and gradually a more formal organization evolved for mutual support.
In 1986 about 80 former Brothers and 45 Brothers met at Iona College in New York to begin what is now called the Edmundians Society, described in its constitution as: "a fellowship of men whose principal expressions are spiritual vitality, mutual support, and social sharing. Our primary purpose is to better develop our spirituality in the vocation we are now pursuing. The common bond that was once our life has reunited us in collegiality and support. Through our sharing with lived ones and the Christian Brothers, we have a privileged opportunity to foster an awareness of God's call by participating in generous response to this Society. We do this even as we engage in various vocations within the Christian Community." (This, and following quotations are from the Constitution of the Edmundian Society.)

LEST WE FORGET
The motto, "Lest we forget," was chosen because: "we feel a calling in faith by the Father to a deeper relationship with Jesus through our association with the Christian Brothers. We feel especially gifted by the charism of Edmund Ignatius Rice, so that we now feel responsible for nurturing the spirituality that grew from it."

EDMUNDIANS IN THE WORLD
A 1995 survey by the Edmundian Society reported that former Brothers from North America are in about 40 U.S. States, several Provinces of Canada, and a number of international locales. They are priests, laymen, vowed religious, teachers, and businessmen in many careers, married and single. The survey revealed that many Edmundians are deeply engaged in a multitude of parish and community services, and sixty percent stated that they had been engaged in some form of religious education. With all members worldwide of the "Edmund Rice Network," these men rejoiced in the beatification of Edmund Rice, a man who dedicated his life to living, and spreading the Gospel message as: a husband, a father, a widower, a single parent, a businessman, a religious Brother, a Founder of two religious congregations, and a senior citizen beset by many difficulties.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Mr. Vincent Russo
Chairman of the Board
The Edmundians Society
139 Cosman Street
Twp. of Washington, NJ 07675
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Br. John Jerry McCarthy
Moderator
33 Pryer Terrace
New Rochelle, NY 10804
(914) 636 6194 , ext. 25
Fax (914) 636 0021
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The Messengers of Edmund Rice, Timirí Éamainn Rís, are a community of men and women scattered throughout Ireland who support each other in living out the compassion and courage of Blessed Edmund in their daily lives. The group was founded in Dublin in 1989 by a small group of Christian Brothers and former members of the Congregation.

The Beginning
From the beginning the group was firmly based on prayer and reflection. Today there are twelve Timirí groups in different parts of the country, made up of former Christian Brothers, their partners and friends, Christian Brothers plus their friends and colleagues.

What happens at a Timirí meeting?
The groups meet for about an hour and a half once a month for prayer and reflection together, usually in a Brothers' house. There is always a good chat and simple refreshments to finish the evening. These simple gatherings, based on faith in the risen Jesus living in our hearts, have set the scene for moments of deep peace, reconciliation, understanding, joy and commitment to reach out to those in need.

How can a person get involved?
You could simply go to a group near you or even form a group yourself. Dick Fields, one of the founders of Timirí and current secretary, is more than willing to pass on details of venues and times of meetings and to give a helping hand in starting a group. Forming a group is as easy as inviting a few people to meet, reflect and pray together.

Many of these men and women look forward to the annual gathering which takes place usually at Emmaus in Dublin around the end of October. A newsletter is sent out at regular intervals to those on the Timirí mailing list. To place your name on this list please contact Dick Fields (telephone 01 839 1396 or email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Presentation Associates groups are usually established wherever there is a community of Brothers. Associates are friends, colleagues and supporters of the Brothers who gather regularly in the Brothers' house to listen to the Gospel and try to put it into practice in their lives.

Presentation Associates are searching for a meaningful experience of Church and feel challenged by the life and vision of Blessed Edmund Rice.

Meetings include a period of prayer and reflection, a time of discussion on issues of faith and justice and a time where the ministry of the group is discussed.

Strong ties and friendships have developed over the years as people use their gifts in the service of others.

New members are always welcome to share in the inspiration of the life of Edmund Rice. Edmund's ability to share in the joys and sorrows of the lives of those around him is what encourages our members to reach out to those in need.

Get Involved!

Contact: Anne Barry Murphy,
Edmund Rice Office, Mardyke House, Cork.
T: 021-4278935 F: 021-4276958
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ERAC

Edmund Rice Action Camps
Edmund Rice Action Camps is a voluntary youth organisation under the auspices of the Presentation Brothers.

In July each year, ERAC organizes summer camps for children who would otherwise not have a holiday. These camps are run by young leaders (mainly senior secondary or third level students) and supervised by adults. The leaders are carefully selected and receive full training before the camps begin. The training includes practical workshops in art/craft, drama, games and first aid. Reflection and team-building are integral parts of this process.

During the course of the camp the children get an opportunity to do art/craft, drama/animation, treasure hunts and story telling. There is also a time for reflection by the children and the leaders.

The young adults who participate develop leadership skills and act as fantastic role-models. Their goal is to ensure that the children have a week filled with fun and happiness.

 

Get involved!

Contact: Katherine Barry,
Young Adult Ministry Office, Presentation Brothers,
Mt. St. Joseph, Blarney St., Cork
T: 021-4654000
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Presentation Volunteer Programme (PVP)

What is the PVP?
The Presentation Volunteer Programme (PVP) provides volunteering opportunities to experienced, professional teachers, committed to Christian Values, who want to work with local communities in the developing world.

What is the purpose of PVP?
Our aim is to provide our volunteers with the opportunity to share their skills with local communities while enriching their personal and spiritual lives. We hope that our volunteers develop positive, professional working relationships that are based on solidarity and mutual respect.

Who can apply?
We are looking for qualified and experienced Primary and Secondary school teachers to work with students in Northern Ghana and in the West Indies. At present our Volunteer Placements are in Northern Ghana and in St. Lucia, West Indies as each of these places have a community of Presentation Brothers already working with the local community.

Is there an age limit?
To apply for a placement you must be at least 21 years of age.

What are the requirements for a volunteer?
Our placements are filled by people who...

• Are sympathetic and compassionate towards disadvantaged young people.
• Are committed to the empowerment of young people.
• Work well in a team.
• Have a sense of humour and be adaptable.
• Are committed to Christian values and principles.
• Commit to volunteering for the duration of the placement.
• Appreciate the strengths and values of the host country.
• Are willing to engage fully with local people while on placement with an open mind.

Where do volunteers work?
In St. Lucia, volunteers work in a project called CARE (Centre for Adolescent Renewal and Education) which is an alternative education project for young people who have dropped out of the formal school system. In Ghana, volunteers usually work on education projects in local schools.

Can I talk to someone if I'm interested?
For more details get in touch with the director of our Youth Ministry office:
Katherine Barry,
T: 021-4654000 E: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or
by post at Young Adult Ministry Office, Presentation Brothers, Mt. St. Joseph, Blarney St., Cork.

How long can I volunteer for?
Placements on the Presentation Volunteer Programme are an academic year in length. Placements begin in Late august and end in July the following year.

Is any training provided?
Participation in a short course provided by the Presentation Brothers is required, as is attendance at a week-long induction course in Dublin. The placement begins with a weeklong orientation programme in the overseas community.

What about the practicalities of travel, insurance and visas?
The cost of flights to and from the placement, as well as, health and accident insurance is covered by the funding grant the Presentation Brothers organise before the Volunteers departure. Assistance will be given with visa applications where necessary.

Will I be paid?
Volunteers are given a monthly allowance. This is used to pay for accommodation, food and living expenses.

Where will I stay?
Volunteers are assisted in finding suitable accommodation.

What about health issues?
An offer of a place on the programme is made subject to a satisfactory medical report and a medical check-up is required on return to Ireland.

What happens when I return home?
All returned volunteers are expected to take part in our de-briefing programme on return to Ireland.

 

 

Communio Edmund Rice

What does "Communio" mean? Communio is a Latin word meaning community. So Communio Edmund Rice literally means "The Community of Edmund Rice".
What is Communio Edmund Rice all about? Communio Edmund Rice is a place where you can experience friendship, support, and prayer. We feel that it is important to develop these qualities because without friendship and support it is very difficult to reach out to those in need. It is also very difficult to develop an adult faith and prayer life without sharing your experiences with people you feel comfortable with.

 

 

Meetings in Ireland are held at Mardyke House, Cork.

If you think that Communio Edmund Rice would be right for you and would like to join an existing group, or, start a group of your own
Contact: Katherine Barry
Presentation Brothers 
Youth Ministry Office
Mount Saint Joseph, 
Blarney Street, Cork.
T: 021-4654000/ 086-8045222
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Get involved! Contact: Andrée Nielson
Phone: 021-4273977  Email:  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
www.sharecork.org

Web: http://sites.google.com/site/associatesedmundrice/

Regional Coordinators
Western United States
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Seattle, WA
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Bloomfiled Hills, MI
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Eastern United States
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Iona College - New Rochelle, NY
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Bishop Hendricken High School - Warwick, RI
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Bonita Springs, FL
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Miami, FL
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Canada
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South America
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West Indies

New Zealand Edmund Rice Network Board

In 2002, a Reference Group was established in New Zealand for the Edmund Rice Network - Ko te Whanau a Edmund Rice. Each New Zealand Edmund Rice group has a representative on the Reference Group. The Reference Group meets once a year to share what is happening in each group, how the groups can support each other and to look at the strategic development of the ERN in New Zealand. The Reference Group identifies how the NZ Edmund Rice National office (that is the work of the NZ networking coordinator, Damaris Kingdon) can best support that strategic development.

 

The current members of the NZ ERN Reference Group are:

Representative Annette Arnerich (coordinator)     Amelia Bresanello (chairperson)   Ben Curtis (coordinator)       Sam Drumm (coordinator)    Cath Ford (coordinator)  Kieran Fouhy (principal)     Cathy Harrison (coordinator)     Chris Merrick (chairperson)     Helen Mulheron (coordinator)    Christine O’Brien (principal)    Br John O’Shea (cluster leader)   Shingi Padya (elected rep)    Brent Russell (principal)    Chris Rooney (principal) Te Aroha Taki (coordinator)    Keith Yardley (proprietors’ delegate)

Edmund Rice Group - ER Reflection Group Rotorua - ER Camps Dunedin - ER Reflection Group Auckland - ER Justice Aotearoa-New Zealand - ER Reflection Group Westport and (ER Community Westport) - St Peter’s College - Auckland - ER Reflection Group Christchurch - ER Camps – Auckland - ER Reflection Group Oamaru/Edmund Rice Singers Oamaru - St Thomas of Canterbury College –Christchurch - Christian Brothers NZ Cluster - ER Community Auckland - St Kevin’s College - Oamaru - Liston College - Auckland - Murupara Ministries - Edmund Rice Education New Zealand

 

At the 2008 meeting of the NZ ERN Reference Group, it was decided that a Board was a suitable way of supporting the work of the NZ ERN Support Office personnel (Damaris Kingdon in this instance) and also conveying the priorities of the NZ Reference Group into practical effect over the ensuing year. At the same time a Board enables proper employment support for the NZ ERN Support office personnel on behalf of the employer the Christian Brothers Oceania Province. It is for this reason that Vince Duggan as Province Leader of the Christian Brothers formally appointed the Board from nominations by the New Zealand ERN Reference Group.

The Province agrees with the Reference Group in seeing this as the best way at this stage of supporting the independent growth of the Edmund Rice Network in New Zealand. All the members of the Board have had a long association with the development of the Edmund Rice Network in New Zealand. The members of the Board are:

Cath Ford has had a very long association with the Christian Brothers. She was in charge of the girls' boarding hostel at St Kevin's College. Since 1999, Cath has been a member of the Edmund Rice Community in Westport living with two Christian Brothers Tony Johnston and Len Hanlon. Cath was an ERN representative at the 2002 Congregation Chapter in Rome and the 2008 Oceania Province Chapter. Cath has also been involved in the Edmund Rice Camps Auckland as a camp coach and is the coordinator of the Westport ER reflection group.

Kieran Fouhy (acting chairperson) has been principal of St Peter's College, Auckland since 1989. He is currently chairperson of the Edmund Rice Justice Aotearoa Trust. Since 2004 he has been chair of the NZ ERN Reference Group. Kieran was an ERN representative at the 2008 Oceania Province Chapter.

Chris Merrick, is currently chair of Edmund Rice Camps Auckland. He is a crown prosecutor and former head boy of St Peter's College, Auckland. Chris has been very involved with a number of Edmund Rice groups and made a significant contribution to the policy development of Edmund Rice Camps Auckland.

Ben Skeen has been very involved with the development of the Edmund Rice Network in New Zealand. He was responsible for starting Edmund Rice Camps in Auckland in 2002 and was the first chairperson. Ben is an old boy of St Peter's College where he was deputy head boy. Ben is a teacher at Auckland Grammar School where he is responsible for student leadership programmes. Ben is also a recognised NZ rugby referee at national level. Ben has been involved in a number of ER groups including reflection and the India Immersion programme.

Keith Yardley is an accountant who has had a long association with the Christian Brothers and also the development of the Edmund Rice Network in New Zealand. Keith is a former Board Chairperson of St Thomas of Canterbury College. In fact he has been involved with the College since he was a first day pupil. He is currently a Proprietor's representative on the Board and is the Proprietor's Delegate at national Catholic Education decision-making meetings. Keith has undertaken the ER India Immersion Programme.

Thank you also to all the members of this new Board for their generous agreement to assist the work of the Edmund Rice Network Support Office. - Br Paul Robertson

Contact:
Damaris Kingdon
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Edmund Rice International works at the international level to promote and protect the rights of the child, the right to education and to engage in ecological advocacy through the promotion of ecological sustainability.

Inspired by the vision and life of Blessed Edmund Rice, we believe that education in all its forms offers opportunities for the promotion of a rights-based and faith-based approaches to social justice and ecological advocacy.

We work in partnership with other faith-based groups, particularly Franciscans International, in the promotion of peace and justice.

We engage with the United Nations through the Human Rights Council in Geneva, the UN Treaty Bodies in New York and through other UN agencies in seeking shared solutions to the issues affecting the lives of the most vulnerable people on our planet.

We are committed to bringing about God's dream for the world and for humanity. God's dream is also ours.

ERI is sponsored jointly by the Religious Congregations of the Christian Brothers and Presentation Brothers.

Contact details:

Edmund Rice International

37-39 rue de Vermont

1211 Geneva 20

T +41229194010

Email us:

Brian Bond cfc (Geneva)

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Denis Claivaz fpm (Geneva)

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Moy Hitchen cfc (Geneva)

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Donal Leader cfc (Geneva)

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Kevin Cawley cfc (New York)

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Website:

www.edmundriceinternational.org

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