Life as we don't know it

Faced with dwindling supplies of human eggs for research, scientists will be told in January whether they have the go-ahead for experiments using animal eggs and human DNA to help create stem cells. But does this leave enough time for an effective ethical debate?...

In the Bleak Midwinter

We are receiving plenty of nominations in the quest to find our readers' favourite carol. Prior to the final poll, contributors tell us about their personal choices...

War clouds gather again

Under the cover of reconstruction work in southern Lebanon after last summer's 34-day war with Israel, Hezbollah has re-established its military strength there. It is also destabilising the Government in Beirut. Renewed fighting is almost inevitable...

Signpost for the hopefuls

If Democrats are to win the presidential vote in 2008, they will need to scrutinise the reasons for their midterm victories - and these may not be to the liking of everyone in the party...

Space for grace

Everything does not have to be said: we should welcome silence and embrace the emptiness that hides a heaven...

A talent for joy

In prayer, it is neccessary to distinguish between our own devotion towards God, and a different kind of rejoicing, in Gods faithfulness toward us. Daniel McCarthy's reading of this weeks's prayer in Latin helps to discern the difference...

Fitting ways to mark farewells

Those attending funerals today expect at least one eulogy paying tribute to the deceased. Yet such speeches, while important for mourners, may also be a distraction...