Saint Edmund Ignatius Rice

Saint Edmund Ignatius Rice (1762–1844) was an Irish Catholic priest and education reformer who founded the Christian Brothers, a religious community dedicated to providing free education to the poor. He was driven by a deep faith and concern for children neglected by the traditional school system. His efforts emphasized compassionate service, moral development, and accessible schooling. Rice's work helped transform education for marginalized communities in Ireland and beyond, making him a significant figure in Catholic social and educational history. He was canonized as a saint in 1991, recognizing his lifelong dedication to helping disadvantaged youth.