November / December 2009

Our cover
The ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God (Psalm response for Christmas Day). Whenever we contemplate the wonders of the heavens, we cannot but marvel at God’s creation. The Christmas star reminds us of both this wondrous gift and the gift of God’s son to our world.

In this issue ...

The dazzling centre of the universe. A thought from Teilhard de Chardin’s Mass on the world.

Soul Matters - Chris Gleeson SJ
Witness. Martyrdom is the most powerful form of witness, told of here in a story of the POW father of Jesuit Peter Quin.

Gifts. A seasonal reminder from poet Bruce Dawe of the true gifts, the greatest gifts, we can bring to others.

Room for Christ. Renowned writer, thinker and activist Dorothy Day reminds us of where we find Christ in our world today.

Tête à Tête — Mary Manning
Saint of the light. Fourth century martyr Lucy of Syracuse is remembered in many different cultures around Christmas, as well as having intriguing connections with literature and music.

Pilgrims on the way - Rosie Hoban
A life of lost sleep. Madonna writer Michael McGirr tells of his life since leaving the Jesuits and making his way as a writer and teacher.

We lift our eyes to the heavens. The Observatory at Riverview College in Sydney brings the stars closer to our lives and celebrates a centenary in this Year of Astronomy.

Family Matters — Teresa Pirola
Aaron’s blessing. ‘May his face shine upon you.’ A blessing that is a powerful communication of grace and peace.

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

The power of story — Elizabeth Pike
On Mary’s lap. Mary and her story continues to be the inspiration of the world’s artists, poets and songwriters.

A Cloud of Witnesses - Edmund Campion
Mary Star of the Sea. Painted for Darwin’s cathedral is the beautiful representation of Mary as a Tiwi woman by Czech artist Karel Kupka.

Bread for the Journey — Peter Steele SJ
The shepherd on the cross. The one who called himself the Good Shepherd was also he who was mockingly labelled ‘King of the Jews’.

Living for the poor. Brian Stoney gave his whole life to support the poor, first at Greenvale in Melbourne then in inner Sydney.

At the invitation of the Lord. Why is it that we do not invite other Christians to the communion table? asks Brian Walker.

Salesians celebrate. In December, following a year of celebrating 150 years since their founding, the Salesians world-wide will renew their profession.

Faith & spirituality in review — New books and films.