Today our pilgrimage took us to the city of Waterford for mass at the tomb of Blessed Edmund Rice. On his tomb is the quote,
Be intent on prayer and whatever may happen will turn to our good.
Edmond Rice began his life as a successful business man who was known for his love for those less fortunate and a life of prayer. At the sudden death of his wife, he began to feel a call to give himself more fully both to prayer and to the service of the poor, most especially children. Today I learned about his life and his belief that for young men to be successful they needed an education and help in learning how to become Christian gentlemen. Our guide to the center pointed out that he began by having bakers, tailors and cobblers as he believed it was much easier for children to learn when they have food in their stomachs, clothes to wear and good shoes on their feet.
Through his example, Edmund Rice attracted others to him who joined him in the education of the poor. Eventually this led to the beginning of the religious order known as the Christian Brothers. Today I was proud to celebrate the Eucharist at his grave with prayers that our pilgrimage will inspire us to deeper prayer and more generous acts of charity
