THE Edmund Rice Network, in partnership with the Christian Brothers congregation, has launched a blueprint to chart a new era for Oceania province.
The blueprint, Imagination for Mission, seeks to create a new sense of mission for the province founded in 2007 comprising the four former provinces of the order in Australia and NZ as well as the regions of PNG, the Philippines and East Timor.
Province leader Brother Vince Duggan said “central to the new beginning will be a focus on areas including ministries to youth, family and developing nations and Edmund Rice Centres relating to justice, spirituality, education and Indigenous support”.
“The blueprint grew out of nearly nine months research and consultation with a number of groups, organisations and people inspired by the life and legacy of Christian Brothers’ founder Blessed Edmund Rice,” he said.
“When five provinces and a region joined into one in 2007, particular areas of ministry were developed.
“These came under ministry support, for-
mation and networking and communications.
“Integration of these directorates came from the reflections of previous directors who, with the Oceania leadership team, saw the advantages for advancing mission through one directorate – Mission.”
Dr Bill Sultmann has recently been appointed director Oceania Province Mission Directorate as part of the new mission direction.
“I have really appreciated the time, passion and commitment of all those who took part in consultations, entering into dialogue as to ideas, processes and structures that might support mission into the future,” he said.
“While much was achieved in the foundation years of the province it is fair to say that these initiatives represent a continuing process of renewal.”
Br Duggan said “we have much to build upon and be grateful to God for as our services continue to be refined and developed”.
“Mission is key, ministries our expression and services the means of support and advocacy.”
