July / August 2009

Our cover
Our eyes are fixed on the Lord (Psalm response for 14th Sunday). In her book, Through a Glass Darkly, Caroline Jones documents her father’s journey home to his God. Her story resonates with many who have undertaken the same companioning and reminds us of the strength and compassion any of us can find in such circumstances.

In this issue ...

Soul Matters - Chris Gleeson SJ
The richness of conversation. A chance encounter results in an intriguing conversation and new insights. Openness to God brings many such opportunities.

A new step in our history. As we enter the one hundred and twelfth year of Madonna, we take a look back at where we have come from.

Pilgrims on the way - Rosie Hoban
Light in the darkness. Caroline Jones’ new book traces her father’s final journey home to his God. Rosie Hoban talks with her about how she managed.

Tête à Tête — Mary Manning
Women for others. St Jane Frances de Chantal overcame the distress of losing her husband to establish an order for women whose aim is to support other women.

Colours. Colour is all around us, says Anne Rennie, and reminds us continually of the brightness of God’s creation.

Grandparents – a ‘great treasure’ Words from Pope Benedict XIV in praise of grandparents.

Valete. We remember two wonderful people associated with Madonna for many years – Mrs Eileen Hunter and Fr Norbert Olsen sj.

Family Matters — Teresa Pirola
Beautiful questions. The debut of a nine-year-old niece as an altar-server prompts reflection on the roles of women and men in the church.

Your Daily Prayer — July & August. A prayerful reflection on the scripture readings for every day of the month.

The power of story — Elizabeth Pike
Compassion for others. Recent tragic events around our country raise questions regarding our place in this land and how we can learn from its original custodians.

A Cloud of Witnesses — Edmund Campion
Historian, scholar – altar boy. Regarded by some as ‘the finest writer among Australian historians’, Oliver McDonagh would have treasured as much his life-long role as an altar server.

Bread for the Journey — Peter Steele SJ
A gritty, tenacious presence. Jesus took some barley-loaves and made a meal for thousands. We today find his presence and nourishment in the very ordinary things of life.

Breathing in the presence of God. Tai-chi may seem an exotic Eastern practice, but Jo Russell shows how it can be a time for spiritual reflection and prayer.

On retreat. A week-long silent retreat gives Danusia Kaska new perpectives on life.

Leaving Egypt behind. To find true happiness we need to leave behind us the slavery that the Egyptian captivity meant to God’s people.

When we are our own enemies. Worry can be a burden. But often, says Peggy Spencer, we make our own burden by worrying unnecessarily.

Faith & spirituality in review — New books and films.