Editorial

Dear Members of the Kildare Ministries community

As we write, we are all in the depths of different ranges of experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic.  The full extent of the impact of the epidemic are not yet obvious, but there are many things to be grateful for, namely

• The wonderful co-operation and collaboration of the Boards, Principals, Managers and staff to discuss and implement their responses in each of their Ministries.   Wellsprings for Women has converted its courses to online learning wherever possible, and they have been blessed by generous donations of computers and access to the internet for the women who would have formerly attended the centre to learn and socialise. Because of the online initiatives, WFW has been involved in developing online curriculum for Neighbourhood Houses in the area.  A terrific initiative!
• BASP is continuing to assist asylum seekers and refugees whose struggle in these times in more difficult.  Food is always available as is assistance in other ways. We are reminded in the most recent BASP newsletter:  “It is in times like these that we find out what holds us together as a community.” 
• PFC is working on how it can best use its resources during these times, given the requirements for isolation.   All in all, and with a deep sense of hope, and a courageous outlook, the Ministries are continuing to build connected inclusive communities, based on dignity and respect and justice.  
• The announcement in CathNews today of the work of ACRATH who have converted their resources about antislavery into online learning resources for schools and anyone else who is exploring this issue.    While ACRATH is not a KM ministry, it is co-located in our Centre in Melbourne. Its Executive Officer is Christine Carolan and it is chaired by Sr Louise Cleary csb, Chair of the KEM Board.  They too carry out their mission in caring for very vulnerable human beings bringing them hope and justice for their future.
• The work of our Board, Principals and staff in our ten schools.   Their work has been extraordinary as they lead their communities to convert courses at all year levels to online learning and teaching.  Managing the stress of parents, students and staff has been something beyond the normal daily issues in their schools.   All the Principals have been in discussion and collaboration, learning from each other as they implement their processes and courses.  We know that their work will be a source of comfort to parents, students and staff, and we are aware too of the generous support and outreach to parents who have lost employment due to COVID-19.    These initiatives have been guided by Gospel values, and the Vision and Mission and Values of Kildare Ministries.   Compassion, Justice and Hope as in all the Ministries have been their touchstones.
• The solidarity of the work, and leadership of the KM staff as they have zoomed through many meetings, kept the flow of formation activities alive online where possible, and adapted to this different way of working.   Our sincere thanks to Erica, Jeff, Renee, Niluka, Monica and Padraig for keeping the organisation operating smoothly. 

Our deep gratitude to our fellow Trustees as well for their discussion and work through online meetings. 

We know that all ministries will be pondering the future of a post COVID-19 world.  We have faith that the lens of Jesus’ example and of the Kildare Ministries Vision and Mission and Values will be our guiding light as we all take care of our communities and discern the plans and decisions for that future.

Blessings to all

Maree Marsh csb & Rosemary Copeland

Co-Chairs TKM