This week, but for Covid 19, the Edmund Rice Action Camps would be taking place. The first camp took place in August 1998, a week after the Omagh bombing, which was a very troubled time in the history of our country.
The Camps have taken place every year since then and,sadly,this is the first year they could not take place.
The fact that E.R.A.C. was sustained and developed over this time is a tribute to the wonderful leadership and commitment of Anne Cleary, her team of mentors and the young leaders themselves. See attached a brief note from E.R.A.C. Anne would say that one of the secrets of its’ success has been the ability to mentor successive teams of leaders over the years. Many have helped,in particular, Brenda Moriarty (now Principal, Coláiste and Spioraid Naoimh), Br. Ultan and Declan Davis, who have been involved from the beginning. Eileen Griffin in MSJ has provided secretarial assistance and beautiful certificates each year.
So, there is a certain sadness among the mentors and young adult leaders that you are not engaged this week in the mission you do so well. Hopefully, next year, you will be back in action! However, today we send you congratulations and best wishes. The ‘pause’ this year provides us with an opportunity to give thanks for all you have achieved.
THE L.E.A.F. PROJECT is very happy to be associated with E.R.A.C. We are grateful for all the support we receive from you and more generally from the community of Colaiste an Spioraid Naoimh. Your participation in many of our key gatherings, such as Young Voices of Faith at Nano Nagle Place and the Welcome Event for Bishop Fintan at the Mardyke, was a special gift to us.
Keep up the good work and best wishes for the future!
Rath Dé ar an obair. Beir bua!
Br. Martin.