These services are intended to be used on occasions to celebrate Blessed Edmund, or for any prayer service that would have a theme around our founder and/or the Congregation. They all can be adapted in various ways. Just click on one of the headings to display the service indicated. Click on the heading again to see all the headings and be able to choose another.
Creed of Edmund's People
We believe the God fire burning in our hearts can transform both ourselves and our world.
We believe we are called by God to a deep personal relationship with Jesus, the lover of all creation, as a brother.
We believe we are called to be good news people.
We believe we are called to be stewards of creation.
We believe we are called to keep our hearts and minds open and attentive to God’s will.
We believe we are called to witness by prophetic action to our option to the poor, the oppressed, and people at the margins.
We believe we are called to immerse ourselves in the culture in which we live and work.
We believe in community which is prayerful, inclusive and welcoming.
We believe our international brotherhood is a witness to a search for global unity.
We believe it is in facing our own fragility that we can accompany others in theirs.
We believe in sharing eucharist and reconciliation that we are drawn beyond ourselves to the mystery of God.
We believe others share the charism of Edmund, and are one with us in living it out.
We hear the call to live justly, love tenderly and to walk humbly with our God. Amen.
Blessed Edmund
LEADER:
Today let us celebrate the feast of Blessed Edmund
Rice and look to the future inspired by his
example.
HYMN:
‘Edmund Rice Anthem' (Colin Smith, cfc)
Gifted by the Spirit and nourished by the Word,
You listened humbly to learn what God
desired.
God, the source of light and love,
Favoured all your days.
We name you Blessed Edmund Rice,
We sing our song of praise.
Faith gave you hope,
A strength which never died.
Hope gave you patient trust,
The love of God revealed.
Love guided ev'ry deed.
Blessed Edmund Rice,
You live a life of joyful sacrifice
READING 1 - CHAPTER 2002: Listening for God
Edmund Rice was a man who found his life radically altered by his relationship with the poor. He not only knew their poverty but he knew them as people and through knowing them he came to ever deepening realisations of his own mission in life. Thus, like Jesus, Edmund was to experience deeply the life of God that pulsated at the heart of his being.
This life of God was visible in the faces and lives of the poor. It is an image of unconditional love and acceptance, mercy, blessing and justice. We can give of this God-life only in the manner and to the measure that we have received. Movement to people at the margins of society is a movement of faith. It includes and goes far beyond actions of justice, peace, education, reconciliation and the re-distribution of resources.
RESPONSE PSALM 111
Ant. Those who instruct many in virtue, will shine as stars for all eternity.
Happy the one who fears the Lord;
who takes delight in all God's commands,
The sons and daughters of God will be powerful on earth;
the children of the upright are blessed.
Riches and wealth are in the Lord's house;
God's justice stands firm forever.
As light in the darkness for the upright:
Truly generous, merciful and just.
Good persons take pity and lends,
conducts their affairs with honour.
The just one will never waver;
will be remembered forever.
Without fear at evil news:
with a firm heart trusting in the Lord.
With a steadfast heart never fearing;
blessed to see the downfall of one's foes.
Open-handed giving to the poor;
their justice stands firm forever.
With raised head lifted in glory.
Ant. Those who instruct many in virtue, will shine as stars for all eternity.
READING 2 - CHAPTER 2002: Listening for God
It is heartening and encouraging to see how our Brothers have made radical moves to be with people at the margins of society. There has been great fidelity shown by leadership throughout the Congregation to move new ministries into conditions of marginalisation and human fragility. It is equally encouraging to find among our new members a love and compassion for the poor particularly in Africa, the Indian subcontinent, Papua New Guinea and South America. It is as inspiring as it is profound to be associated with the inspiration of Blessed Edmund in these men among their people.
At times, some of them, like their older Brothers before them, have moved beyond their own people and nation. In the Western World, many Brothers have sought to be with people, especially young people, who have marginalised. In all of these instances there is a sense among the Brothers of new energy, meaning and vitality. A small yet significant number of Bothers have devoted their energies to redressing the marginalisation of our planet and the fruits of the earth. This, too, speaks of a new dimension and quality of relationship as all creation belongs in the same Creator God.
Reflection before the intercessions
Let us pray:
That like Blessed Edmund, we may welcome into our lives the poor and all in need, especially young people, that we may eliminate discrimination and injustice...
That faithful to the vision of Edmund Rice, we may respect the God-given dignity of all and their right to an upbringing and education that is life-giving and empowering, and work creatively to achieve this...
That all of us in the family of Blessed Edmund will follow his example of fervent prayer and daily reflection on the Word of God...
That as we seek new beginnings in the Church of today in the spirit of Blessed Edmund, God's Holy Spirit will lead many to join our family throughout the world...
That as all here give thanks for the gift of Blessed Edmund, so may we be blessed with that deep love of God, which guided his life...
That God may reward the families, friends and benefactors of our schools and ministries who have given generously of their time and services throughout the years...
CANTICLE OF ZACHARIAH
ANT. Whatsoever you do to the least of my brethen, that you do unto me.
Blessed are you, God of Israel
for you have visited and redeemed your people,
and have raised up a horn of salvation for us
in the house of your servant.
As you spoke through the mouths
of your holy prophets of old,
that we should be saved from our enemies,
and from the hand of all who oppress us;
to perform the mercy promised to our ancestors,
and to remember your holy covenant,
the oath you swore to Abraham and Sarah,
to grant us deliverance from evil;
that we might serve you without fear,
in holiness and righteousness
all the days of our lives.
And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High,
for you will go before the Holy One to prepare God's ways,
to give knowledge of salvation to God's people
in the forgiveness of their sins,
through the tender mercy of our God
when the day shall dawn upon us from on high
to give light to those who sit in darkness
and in the shadow of death,
to guide our feet into the way of peace.
ANT. Whatsoever you do to the least of my brethren, that you do unto me.
Concluding Prayer:
0 God, we thank you for the life of Edmund Rice.
He opened his heart to Christ,
present in those oppressed by poverty and injustice.
May we follow his example of faith and generosity.
Grant us the courage and compassion of Edmund
as we seek to live lives of love and service
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
CLOSING HYMN: ‘ Edmund Rice Anthem' (Colin Smith, cfc)
Sent to serve God's people,
enriching lives of youth.
You strove with vision for justice, mercy, truth.
Teaching us compassion,
living with the poor.
We love you Blessed Edmund Rice,
we praise you ever more.
Faith, gave you hope, a strength which never died
Hope gave you patient trust, the love of God revealed.
Love guided ev'ry deed. Blessed Edmund Rice,
You live a life of joyful sacrifice.
Br. Ollie Harkin (SA)
05 de MAYO
LÍDER – Hoy celebremos la fiesta del Beato Edmundo Rice y miremos hacia el futuro inspirados por su ejemplo.
Primera Parte del HIMNO de EDMUNDO RICE (Colin Smith, cfc)
Bendecido por el Espíritu y nutrido por la Palabra,
Tú escuchaste humildemente para aprender lo que quería Dios.
Dios, fuente de la luz y del amor,
Favoreció todos tus días.
Te nombramos Beato Edmundo Rice.
Cantamos nuestro canto de alabanza.
La fe te dio esperanza,
Una fuerza que nunca murió.
La esperanza te dio una paciente confianza,
El amor de Dios revelado.
El amor guió a todos tus actos.
Beato Edmundo Rice,
Tú vives una vida de alegre sacrificio…
PRIMERA LECTURA: CAPÍTULO 2002 – “Escuchando a Dios”
Edmundo Rice fue un hombre quien encontró su vida radicalmente cambiado por su relación con los pobres. No sólo conoció su pobreza, sino los conoció a ellos como personas, y, a través de ese conocimiento, llegó a la profunda realización de su propia misión en la vida. Así, como Jesús, Edmundo iba a experimentar profundamente la vida de Dios que latía en el corazón de su ser.
La vida de Dios fue visible en los rostros y las vidas de los pobres. Es una imagen del amor incondicional y la aceptación, misericordia, bendición y justicia. Podemos dar de esta vida divina sólo en la manera y medida que la hemos recibido. El movimiento hacia las personas a las márgenes de la sociedad es un movimiento de fe. Incluye y va más allá de las acciones de justicia, paz, educación, reconciliación y la redistribución de los recursos.
RESPONSO A LA LECTURA: PSALMO 111
SEGUNDA LECTURA: CAPÍTULO 2002 – “Escuchando a Dios”
Nos anima y nos alienta ver cómo los Hermanos han tomado decisiones radicales para estar con la gente a las márgenes de la sociedad. El Liderazgo de la Congregación ha manifestado una gran fidelidad al promover nuevos ministerios en condiciones de marginalización y fragilidad humana. De igual manera, nos anima a encontrar entre los nuevos miembros de la Congregación un amor y una compasión por los pobres, particularmente en África, el subcontinente de la India, Papua Nueva Guinea y Sudamérica. Es tan inspirador como insondable estar asociado con el carisma de Edmundo Rice en estos hombres entre su gente.
A veces, algunos de ellos, como sus Hermanos mayores antes de ellos, se han mudado más allá de su propia gente y países.
En el Mundo Occidental, muchos Hermanos han buscado estar con personas, especialmente jóvenes, quienes han sufrido la marginalización. En todas estas instancias, Los Hermanos han sentido una nueva energía, significado y vitalidad. Un pequeño número de Hermanos han dedicado sus energías a rectificar la marginalización de nuestro planeta y los frutos de la Tierra. También esto habla de una nueva dimensión y cualidad de relación dado que toda la creación pertenece al mismo Dios Creador.
Reflexión antes de las preces. (Música meditativa de fondo)
LAS PRECES:
Que, como el Beato Edmundo, podamos recibir en nuestras vidas a los pobres y a todos con necesidades, especialmente a los jóvenes, para poder eliminar la discriminación y la injusticia… Roguemos al Señor…
Que, fieles a la visión de Edmundo Rice, respetemos la dignidad de todos como un don heredado de Dios, y su derecho a una crianza y educación que aporten vida y autoridad y que trabajemos para lograr éstos… Roguemos al Señor…
Que todos los que nos encontremos en la Red de Edmundo Rice sigamos su ejemplo de oración fervorosa y reflexión diaria sobre la Palabra de Dios… Roguemos al Señor…
Que, mientras busquemos nuevos comienzos en la Iglesia de hoy en el espíritu del Beato Edmundo, el Espíritu Santo de Dios anime a muchos a integrarse a la Red en las distintas partes del mundo… Roguemos al Señor…
Damos gracias por el don de Edmundo a esta Tierra y pedimos que seamos bendecidos con el mismo amor por Dios que guió su vida… Roguemos al Señor…
Que el Señor bendiga a las familias, amigos y benefactores de nuestros colegios y ministerios que han dado tan generosamente de su tiempo, dinero y servicios a través de los años… Roguemos al Señor…
EL PADRE NUESTRO
Segunda Parte del HIMNO DE EDMUNDO RICE
Enviado para servir al Pueblo de Dios,
Enriqueciendo las vidas de los jóvenes,
Tú luchaste con visión por la justicia, misericordia y verdad,
Enseñándonos compasión,
Viviendo con los pobres,
Te amamos, Beato Edmundo Rice.
Te alabamos por siempre.
La fe te dio esperanza,
Una fuerza que nunca murió.
La esperanza te dio una paciente confianza,
El amor de Dios revelado.
El amor guió a todos tus actos.
Beato Edmundo Rice,
Tú vives una vida de alegre sacrificio…
BEATO EDMUNDO RICE -- Tema: SOBRIEDAD (Moderación)
«Edmundo fue muy sobrio. Su desayuno consistía en una o dos tazas de té con un poco de pan y mantequilla. La cena fue muy ordinario, y su bebido, sólo agua. Se les incentivaban a los Hermanos a hacer otros actos de penitencia también.
A pesar de mantener esta vivencia austera, los Hermanos en la Comunidad de Monte Sión (Waterford) eran muy felices y unidos en comunidad con el Fundador como su líder. Su amabilidad se extendía a todos, pero se manifestaba principalmente en su cuidado de los enfermos, y él mostró gran preocupación para cualquier persona solitaria o en peligro. Para estas personas, siempre tenía una palabra de consolación y de aliento y parecía que tenía el poder de expulsar a la tristeza.»
(Fragmento de “A Tree is Planted” por Hno. M.C. Normoyle)
ORACIÓN:
Dios bondadosa,
tu nos has dado tal abundancia
de cosas buenas en la vida.
Ayúdanos a disfrutar
de todos estos regalos con gratitud.
También, que seamos concientes,
como Edmundo, de la necesidad de la penitencia.
En solidaridad con aquéllos
que tienen poco para comer o beber,
permítanos abstenernos de los excesos
en las cosas a nuestro alcance,
y contribuir materialmente
a los menos afortunados.
Esto lo pedimos en el nombre de Cristo,
quien tuvo una especial afinidad para con los pobres.
Amén.
BEATO EDMUNDO RICE -- Tema: SOBRIEDAD (Moderación)
«Edmundo fue muy sobrio. Su desayuno consistía en una o dos tazas de té con un poco de pan y mantequilla. La cena fue muy ordinario, y su bebido, sólo agua. Se les incentivaban a los Hermanos a hacer otros actos de penitencia también.
A pesar de mantener esta vivencia austera, los Hermanos en la Comunidad de Monte Sión (Waterford) eran muy felices y unidos en comunidad con el Fundador como su líder. Su amabilidad se extendía a todos, pero se manifestaba principalmente en su cuidado de los enfermos, y él mostró gran preocupación para cualquier persona solitaria o en peligro. Para estas personas, siempre tenía una palabra de consolación y de aliento y parecía que tenía el poder de expulsar a la tristeza.»
(Fragmento de “A Tree is Planted” por Hno. M.C. Normoyle)
ORACIÓN:
Dios bondadosa,
tu nos has dado tal abundancia
de cosas buenas en la vida.
Ayúdanos a disfrutar
de todos estos regalos con gratitud.
También, que seamos concientes,
como Edmundo, de la necesidad de la penitencia.
En solidaridad con aquéllos
que tienen poco para comer o beber,
permítanos abstenernos de los excesos
en las cosas a nuestro alcance,
y contribuir materialmente
a los menos afortunados.
Esto lo pedimos en el nombre de Cristo,
quien tuvo una especial afinidad para con los pobres.
Amén.
Death of Edmund Rice
29 August 1844
Edmund Rice resigned the office of Superior General in the year 1838, because his health was rapidly failing. His step grew slower, his hair was for many years snow-white, his face had grown furrowed and his memory was not so keen. From Dublin he retired to his beloved Mount Sion to prepare for death.
Now that he was free from the burden of responsible office, he had for the first time in a long life the opportunity of giving himself without interruption to God in prayer and meditation. In the flower of manhood he had longed for the peace and seclusion of a Trappist monastery. For special periods of retreat and solitude he retired to Armestown, Co. Waterford, a quiet seaside village.
Reading 2: Last Days
At last he became so weak that he was forced to use a wheel-chair to get about. Though physically he had changed much, he was still the same kind, gentle person he had always been. When the novice in whose charge he was, forgot to attend to him there was no complaint.
Edmund Rice was for some time one of Waterford's wealthiest men. When he died his Community at Mount Sion, Waterford, was so poor that he was buried at the expense of a charitable Waterford man (Mr. Harrington), who knew the Brothers had not sufficient money to bury their Founder.
Some time after the death of this great educator, a special Mass in his memory was celebrated in Waterford Cathedral. The Bishop of Waterford and Lismore, Most Rev Dr Foran, knowing how poor the Brothers were, paid all the expenses in connection with this function.
Why were the Brothers so poor? Because they wished above all things to be able to keep their schools open to the poor. In order to do so they cut down on their own expenditure and led lives of great poverty.
Reading 3
These few facts may enable us to understand why Edmund Rice gave not only his life and labours, but all he possessed of this world's goods to the cause of Catholic education.
His work was inspired by the love of God and zeal for souls. He gladly offered his life and his ample wealth that more and more boys should come to know and love God and His Blessed Mother in his schools and that throughout their adult life they should loyally serve God and their country and thereby merit the joys of loving and praising God in heaven.
Reflection:
ANT. Companions, emboldened by his example, came to join him; by doing, he taught them.
0.
Psalm 112
0.
Happy those who fear
Yahweh
and joyfully keep God's commandments!
Children of such as these will be powers on earth;
each generation of the upright will be blessed.
There will be riches and wealth for their families
and their righteousness stands firm forever.
Even in the darkness, light dawns for the upright,
for the merciful, compassionate, and righteous.
These
good of heart lend graciously,
handling
their affairs honestly.
Kept safe by virtue, they are always steadfast,
and leave an everlasting memory behind them.
With a trusting heart and confidence in Yahweh,
they need never fear evil news.
Steadfast in heart they overcome their fears;
in the end they will triumph over their enemies.
Quick to be generous, they give to the poor;
their righteousness stands firm forever.
People such as these will always be honored.
This fills the wicked with fury,
until, grinding their teeth, they waste away,
vanishing like their vain hopes.
ANT.
Companions, emboldened by his example, came to join
him; by doing, he taught
them.
Time
for Reflection
Responses:
The life of Edmund Rice
is the record of his progression from being an
exemplary Catholic layman to the stature of a
heroic religious founder. Today we honour this man,
who in his daily life lived the message of the
Gospel, and brought Christ to the people who were
his concern. Let us pray, therefore, that we too
may live out that same message of Christ and thus
show ourselves to be true sons of our holy Founder:
1. We pray that Christ may always live in our
hearts and be visible in our loving concern for all
the people of God. Lord,
hear us. Lord,
graciously hear us.
2. We pray that we may be penetrated with the
spirit of our holy founder and renewed in the same
great faith and all-embracing love.
Lord,
hear us.
3.
We pray
that all brothers may bring Christ to the world and
extend the kingdom of God on earth by their own
Christ-like loving. Lord,
hear us.
4. We pray that our sick and infirm brothers may be
comforted and consoled, and that they may see in
their sufferings a means of extending God's
kingdom. Lord,
hear us.
5.
We pray
that God may enlighten all our brothers in
authority to guide our Congregation in these days
of renewal so that it may fulfill the mission
entrusted to it by Christ's Church,
Lord,
hear us.
6. We pray that our parents, relations, friends and
benefactors, living and dead, may be rewarded by
God for their many sacrifices on our behalf.
Lord,
hear us.
7. We pray that we may all show a filial love for
our Blessed Mother whose great act of faith, shown
in her complete response to God's will, gave to all
people the Saviour of the world.
Lord, hear us.
Closing Prayer:
O
God, we thank you for the life of Edmund Rice. He
opened his heart to Christ present in those
oppressed by poverty and injustice. May we follow
his example of faith and generosity. Grant us the
courage and compassion of Edmund as we seek to live
lives of love and service. We ask this through
Jesus our brother. Amen.
Br.
Ollie Harkin (South Africa)
Edmund Rice Network
"Now as your numbers diminish in some places,
they increase elsewhere. And beyond the bounds of
the Congregation itself the Edmund Rice Movement is
stirring new energies among lay men and women who
share in your spirit of work..."
Holy Father's address, March 2002
HYMN:
‘Bind us together, Lord, bind us together'
READING
1 -
Congregation Chapter: Listening for
God
In the last six years, we, as Brothers, have been privileged to live, minister and pray with women and men, young and old, whose lives have been deeply affected by Blessed Edmund Rice. Many have given a special emphasis to work among the poor. Some have travelled far from home to be with and minister to the poor of other lands. Men and women, who have long been our colleagues in ministry, have now found ways of making explicit something deep in their spirit and spirituality.
| Constitution #3 reads as follows: We are gifted with the charism of Blessed Edmund, our Founder, and we are responsible for nurturing it. We recognise that this charism is shared by others who can draw inspiration from Blessed Edmund. The Direction concerning The Edmund Rice Family was a formal congregational proclamation of something that was already emerging in many parts of the world.. . |
REFLECTION
Ant.
All the peoples will give praise to the
Lord.
Psalm 66
O God, be gracious and bless us
and let your face shed its light upon us.
So will your ways be known upon earth
and all nations learn your saving help.
Let the peoples praise you, 0 God,
let all the peoples praise you.
Let the nations be glad and exult
for you rule the world with justice.
With faithfulness you rule the peoples,
you guide the nations on earth.
Let the peoples praise you, 0 God;
let all the people's praise you.
The earth has yielded its fruit
for God, our God, has blessed us.
May God still give us blessings
till the ends of the earth revere God.
Let the peoples praise you, 0 God;
let all the peoples praise you. (Glory to you ...)
READING 2 -
LISTENING FOR GOD
A key issue is the connection of the Edmund Rice
Family to the Congregation of Christian Brothers.
It is worth noting at this point that the
Congregation would also experience itself in
various places with connections to the Nagle-Rice
Family and to the Presentation Family. Clearly,
what is currently designated as the Edmund Rice
Family has obvious connections to the Congregation
of Christian Brothers.
Among matters which will need attention,
clarification and acceptance into the future will
be:
• The Congregation of Christian Brothers as a
Religious Congregation in the Church
• The Edmund Rice Family as an association of
women and men who are in the Lay or Religious
State. Ordained Priests are also involved
• Participation in the Edmund Rice Family
neither negates distinctiveness, on the one hand,
nor mutuality and interdependence, on the other
We want to affirm the outstanding goodness of so
many people who find inspiration and meaning for
their lives in the gift of Blessed Edmund.
In particular, we are deeply grateful for the
research, reflection and writing that has been
undertaken and widely shared. To all who facilitate
and participate in formation programmes for the
Edmund Rice Family, we are deeply grateful. We have
been humbled by so many people who have expressed
such deep appreciation of the experience of being
with our Brothers in many parts of the world.
It is right to affirm the gift of so much diversity
in the Charism of Edmund which has led to such
positive experiences of community and mission.
INTERCESSIONS:
With the same deep
faith and enduring trust shown by Edmund Rice, let
us bring our prayers and petitions before our
loving God.
• That with the faith and generosity of
Blessed Edmund, the Church, following the guidance
of the Holy Spirit and the leadership of Pope John
Paul, will work tirelessly to proclaim the Gospel
and to build a just, free and caring society ...
• That in the caring spirit of Blessed
Edmund, leaders in our world may constantly hold
faithful service and care of all people as the
guide to their decisions...
• That like Blessed Edmund, we may welcome
into our lives the poor and all in need, especially
young people, and that we may work to eliminate
discrimination and injustice...
• That faithful to the vision of Blessed
Edmund, we may respect the God-given dignity of all
and their right to an upbringing and education that
is life-giving and empowering, and work creatively
to achieve it...
• That all of us in the family of Blessed
Edmund will follow his example of fervent prayer
and daily reflection on the Word of God...
• Others intentions followed by the Edmund
Rice Prayer ...
BLESSED
EDMUND RICE PRAYER
O God, we thank you for the life of Blessed Edmund
Rice.
He opened his heart to Christ
present in those oppressed by poverty and
injustice.
May we follow his example of faith and generosity.
Grant us the courage and compassion of Blessed
Edmund
as we seek to live lives of live and service.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
CLOSING
HYMN:
‘Edmund Rice Anthem'
(Colin
Smith, cfc)
Gifted by the Spirit and nourished by the Word,
You listened humbly to learn what God desired.
God the source of light and love, favoured all your
days.
We name you, Blessed Edmund Rice.
We sing our song of praise.
Faith, gave you hope, a strength which never died
Hope gave you patient trust, the love of God
revealed.
Love guided ev'ry deed. Blessed Edmund Rice,
You live a life of joyful sacrifice.
Called to follow Jesus Christ, you heard his voice
so clear:
Come, never falter, and challenge ev'ry fear.
Many others followed you, caught your vision's
fire.
You lead us, Blessed Edmund Rice,
Your deeds of love inspire.
Live, Jesus in our hearts,
forever.
Br. Ollie Harkin (SA)
Founder's Day
Let us remember that God
is here with our in this holy place.
In the name of our creator, redeemer and
sanctifier.
Amen.
PRAYER
We pray that we may be
filled with the knowledge of God’s will in
all spiritual wisdom and understanding, to lead a
life worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to God as
did your servant Edmund. May we be
strengthened with all power, according to
God’s glorious might, for all endurance and
patience with joy, giving thanks to the Creator,
through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Amen. (Colossians 19f
As they went on their
way, a man said to Jesus:
FOLLOWER #1
"I will
follow you wherever you go."
EDMUND
"One thing
you may be sure of, that whilst you work for God,
whether you succeed or not, he will amply reward
you."
FOLLOWER #2
"Sir, first let me go back and bury my father."
EDMUND
"O God, did we even now rightly begin to serve you,
your loving heart would take us all to its final
embrace."
FOLLOWER #3
"I will follow you, sir; but first let me go and
say good-bye to my family."
EDMUND
"Cast all your cares into the arms of divine
Providence. The will of God be done in this and
every thing we undertake."
READER
After this the Lord chose another seventy-two and
sent them out two by two, to go ahead of him to
every town and place where he himself was about to
go. He said to them,
EDMUND
"Above all, beg of him to give you the virtue of
humility which is so necessary for religious in
every station, but particularly for those who have
the care and direction of others. If you only
acquire this virtue, it will always guide you
safely, let your paths be ever so cross or
difficult."
READER
So they set out and went through the villages,
proclaiming the good news and healing people
everywhere.
EDMUND
"Were we to know the merit and value of only going
from one street to another to serve a neighbour for
the love of God, we should prize it more than
silver and gold. But let us do ever so little for
God, we will be sure he will never forget us."
READER
The seventy-two disciples returned full of joy.
They said, "Lord, even the demons obeyed us when we
called on your name."
EDMUND
"Be intent on prayer and whatever may happen will
turn to our good."
PAUSE FOR QUIET REFLECTION AND
SHARING
RESPONSE:
THE RENEWAL OF VOWS
In the name of the
Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.
Most Holy Trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit,
prostrate in profound adoration before your
infinite and adorable Majesty, I have come to
consecrate myself to you, to procure your glory as
far as lies in me, or you are pleased to require of
me.
For this purpose I, Brother N., renew the Perpetual
vows I have already made as a professed member of
the Congregation of Christian Brothers, founded by
Blessed Edmund Rice under the protection of Jesus
Christ and the patronage of the Blessed Virgin
Mary, His Mother, in order to perform any duties my
Superiors may assign to me.
To this end I, Brother N., renew the simple vows of
Chastity, Poverty and Obedience I have already made
according to the Constitutions of the Congregation
and I promise and pray that, with the grace of God,
I shall observe them faithfully.
BLESSING
(adapted
from Philippians 1:3-11)
Reader 1
I thank my God every time I remember you,
constantly praying with joy in every one of my
prayers for all of you [add names, etc.], because
of your sharing in the gospel from the first day
until now.
I am confident of this, that the one who began a
good work among you will bring it to completion by
the day of Jesus Christ.
Reader
2
It is right for me to think this way about all of
you, because you hold me in your heart, for all of
you share in God’s grace with me, both in my
[name ideals and dreams for the community,
congregation].
For God is my witness, how I long for all of you
with the compassion of Christ Jesus.
Reader
3
And this is my prayer, that your love may overflow
more and more with knowledge and full insight to
help you to determine what is best, so that in the
day of Christ you may be pure and blameless, having
produced the harvest of righteousness that comes
through Jesus Christ for the glory and praise of
God.
CLOSING PRAYER
Lord
Jesus,
I give you my hands to do your work.
I give you my feet to go your way.
I give you my eyes to see as you do.
I give you my tongue to speak your words.
I give you my mind that you may think in me.
I give you my spirit that you may pray in me.
Above all, I give you my heart that you may love in
me
all that you have created.
I give you my whole self that you may grow in me,
so that it is you, Lord Jesus,
who live and work and pray in me.
LIVE
JESUS IN OUR HEARTS.
FOREVER!
Br.
Nick Morris (Rome)
The Heart of Being Brother
‘Jerusalem, My Destiny’ ~ Rory Cooney
‘The Servant Song’ ~ Marty Haugen
WORD OF GOD Constitution # 39
Pause to reflect in what specific way did I experience Constitution 39 over the last few days.
OUR CONGREGATIONAL VISION
Look overThe Heart of Being Brother
(or any significant congregation/province statement).
| Brief Reflection |
Brief Reflection
Pick out for yourself the line or phrase that from the document that you most:
* want to experience
* feel threatened by or challenged with.
Sharing
The community members share of their reflection or offer some prayer at this time.
THANKSGIVING
Pray for
* Persons
* Experiences
* congregational events
- that touched you over this past year or two and helped you to grow.
SIGN OF BROTHERHOOD
- sign of peace and brotherhood shared in the group.
Magnificat of a Christian Brother (See under ‘Edmund Rice Celebrations’ on this website)
Br. Nick Morris
Feast of the Holy Name
INTRODUCTION
| NOTES: |
OPENING
SONG
Choose an appropriate hymn.
OPENING
PRAYER
We pause, our God,
along the busy roadside of our lives, to remember
you and your love for us. Calm us - body and heart,
heal us of the disease of restlessness. Help us
remember this day as a day of blessing upon our
brotherhood so many years ago.
READING:
A Spiritual Profile By Leonard O'Toole, Vol
2
Pages 191 & 192 (first half of page
192)
Come
and be with us as we pray now in silence.
a
brief period of silent prayer
CANDLE CEREMONY (Ritual)
Notes:
In
Prayers for a Planetary
Pilgrim,
Edward Hays states that the lighting of candles
"'should be more than a means of decoration; it
should awaken us to our vocation to be 'the Light
of the world.'" In this part of the prayer
service, we ask each member of the praying
community to light a candle/votive light and place
it before an icon or image of Jesus that has been
set up in the prayer room. They are asked to
consider the struggle and difficulties faced by the
early brothers as they committed themselves on the
Feast of the Holy Name of Jesus in 1822
to
a new beginning as
religious brothers.
As
each man lights his candle, he may pray one of the
candle prayers below (courtesy of Joyce Rupp and
Edward Hays), or create his own prayer of
remembrance and acceptance of the cost of
discipleship.
|
|
Be thou a guiding star above us
Be thou a smooth path beneath us
Be thou a shepherd behind us
Today and for evermore
Christ light be with us in the morning,
Christ light be with us at the end,
Christ light be with us in the dawning,
Christ light everlasting friend.
Light of God to give us hope
Power of God to protect us
Light of God to give us joy
Peace of God to calm us
Light of God to give us faith
Grace of God to save us
This night and evermore.
Blessed are you, Creator and giver of peace.
Peace be upon us,
Peace be upon this place,
Peace be upon this day.
The deep, deep peace of God
which the world cannot give,
Be upon us and remain with us always.
Creator of light,
The blessing of light be upon us-
The blessing of daylight,
The blessing, of sunlight,
The blessing of Christ light.
Scatter the darkness from before us
That we may walk as children of light.
Blessed are you, sovereign Lord of all.
From you comes peace;
Open our lives to your peace,
Open our dealings to your peace,
Fill our world with your peace,
That we may live together in peace,
And worship you, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
|
|
|
A
final candle is lighted by the leader, and as it is
lit, the whole praying community
prays:
ALL:
Blessed are you, Lord God, Creator of all. You have
called us out of darkness Into your bright light,
into Christ's light.
Let his presence guide us this day, that we may
share his light and walk before you as children of
light, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen
PAUSE FOR REFLECTION AND
SHARING
RESPONSE:
Leader/
We lift up our hearts to you, Source of all life, a
heart quiet and open, yet eager for ecstasy, ready
to be carried out of ourselves and into your divine
heart, Beloved One.
ALL/
We lift up our hearts to you, in gratitude for the
gift of memories, that marvellous ability you have
hidden deep within us. We recall in thanksgiving
not only such famous deeds of salvation as the
liberation of Israel from slavery in Egypt and the
resurrection of your son Jesus from the dead, but
also the many deeds of love that you have shown to
Edmund our founder that blessed this day in our
memory as we praise your Most Holy Name.
pause for a litany of
thanksgiving
THE SONG OF CHRIST'S GLORY
R/
At the name of Jesus every knee should
bow.
Christ Jesus was in the form of God: but he did not
cling to equality with God.
R/
At the name of Jesus every knee should
bow.
He emptied himself, taking the form of a servant:
and was born in the likeness of men.
R/
At the name of Jesus every knee should
bow.
Being found in human form he humbled himself and
became obedient unto death, even death on a cross.
R/
At the name of Jesus every knee should
bow.
Therefore God has highly exalted him: and bestowed
on him a name above every name;
R/
At the name of Jesus every knee should
bow.
that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow: in
heaven and on earth and under the earth.
R/
At the name of Jesus every knee should
bow.
and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord:
to the glory of God the Father.
R/
At the name of Jesus every knee should
bow.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son; and to the
Holy Spirit: as it was in the beginning, is now;
and shall be for ever.
Amen.
R/
At the name of Jesus every knee should
bow.
THE REMEMBRANCE OF JESUS' GIFT
Notes:
Various members of the praying community can pray
various parts.
With reverence and awe we bow down before you, Most
High. Holy, holy, holy are you, the Womb of all
that we call holy, heaven and earth are full of
your glory.
a bodily ritual such as a profound
bow
We thank you for filling us as well with your glory; like Moses, we know that this place where we worship you is truly holy ground this day. Pour forth upon us your Spirit, to remind us that you ordained us in our mothers’ womb - anointed from above by your Spirit, we also were called to be ministers of a collective memory, to remember how your son Jesus Christ gave his body and blood, his very