Who could ever evaluate all the good received by the spiritual thoughts of Blessed Edmund Rice, from his loving heart and profound faith? Once again Ireland has given the Church and the world an extraordinary testimony of what loyalty to Christ means: “Continue doing all what He has taught you… and God’s peace will be with you”
Juan Pablo II, on occasion of Edmund Rice’s Beatification, October 6th 1996
His history
Edmund Rice was born in 1762 en Callan, Ireland, in a family of prosperous farmers. In years of persecution he was brought up with a solid Christian education.
A few years after marrying, his wife died in an accident and Edmund remained alone with his daughter Mary.
In 1795, he takes over his uncle’s important business in Waterford. He was already known for his solidarity and concern for the poor. He responded to God’s call and founded the Congregation of Christian Brothers with the purpose of providing education to those in need.
In 1802, he opened the first school in a stable in Waterford.
In 1820, Pope Pius VII approved the Congregation and Edmund Rice as Superior General. During his long life of service and sacrifice, Edmund endured many challenges and setbacks.
Edmund died in 1844. In 1933 he was named Venerable and on October 6th 1996 was declared Blessed Edmund Rice by YS Pope John Paul II.
