Of course, there’s more to the Edmund Rice Centre than the museum and chapel. As well as being a visitor attraction and place of pilgrimage, it’s also the heart and soul of the local community. One of its main ministries is the Information and Integration Support Unit which helps refugees, asylum seekers and other immigrants to integrate into the local community. Activities include English language classes, computer skills, a drop-in centre, cultural events and free legal aid.
The centre is also used by local businesses and community organisations for meetings and conferences, classes and workshops. Activities include yoga, personal development, art therapy, counselling, aerobics, music and dancing. The rooms can seat from 15 to 60 with screens and projectors as well as tea and coffee making facilities. Open seven days a week, with catering available on request, they’re available for hire at very reasonable rates.
