What happened in Edmund Rices great loss?

Edmund Rice's "great loss" refers to the tragic death of his wife, Mary, shortly after the birth of their second child in 1808. This event profoundly impacted Rice, leading him to reevaluate his life and faith. Following this loss, he dedicated himself to serving the poor and educating underprivileged children, ultimately founding the Christian Brothers and the Presentation Brothers to further his mission. This transformation marked the beginning of his lifelong commitment to education and social justice.