The fast track that needs to slow down

The best way to honour John Paul II is through a seemly and rigorous beatification process. But the Polish Church has not always maintained these standards, and the late Pope?s cause may suffer...

Women under fire

Film of captured female sailor Faye Turney shown on Iranian television has highlighted concerns about the increasing number of women forces personnel at risk of abuse and exploitation by an enemy. But they are here to stay...

Coming into leaf

At this time of year, when nature is resurrecting itself from winter, a garden is an appropriate place to reflect on the events of Holy Week. It is no coincidence that many of the pivotal events in the Bible take place with the protagonists surrounded by the works of both God and mankind...

Many reasons, one desire

Parishes all over the world will be welcoming new members at the Easter Vigil. But what draws people to the Catholic Church and what problems do they face in embracing a new faith? Experienced catechists provide some interesting answers...

From doubt to faith

In her book The Art of Faith, art historian Sr Wendy Beckett uses the panels of Duccio?s magnificent Maest?, completed for the high altar of Siena Cathedral in 1311, as the basis for a series of reflections. Here, to accompany our Easter cover illustration of The Incredulity of Thomas, she considers belief and repentance...

Hell for grown-ups

When Pope Benedict spoke about the reality of hell last week, the media response was predictable. But, far from using the old images of fire and brimstone, he was offering a far more subtle reminder of a possible destiny...

The path to Calvary

Whether walking the real Via Dolorosa in the Holy Land or following Christ?s path to Golgotha through the virtual world of the internet, the Stations of the Cross are an intimate and immediate way for contemporary Christians to reflect on the Crucifixion...

Prophesying for the planet

When Al Gore recently brought to Britain his campaign to raise global awareness of the threat posed to humanity by climate change, he combined seasoned political campaigning with the zeal of an Old Testament prophet. His Baptist faith was in evidence, too....

Perils of the school-place lottery

Drawing lots to get into over-subscribed schools might seem to benefit those disadvantaged by the mortgage-wielding middle class but the danger of demands for a return to selection lurks beneath this short-sighted attempt to reform Britain?s massively failing educational system...

?The right thing to do?

A quarter of a century ago, Margaret Thatcher sent the British task force to the South Atlantic to drive the Argentine invaders from the Falkland Islands. It is a decision that appears vindicated by history, says one writer who was based in Buenos Aires throughout the conflict...

In newness of life

Continuing the seasonal return to his series on the opening prayer, Daniel McCarthy considers that of the liturgy of the Triduum through which we might rise to self-transcending love of God and neighbour...

Lighten the darkness

The symbols and images associated with the Easter Vigil must properly evoke the drama of what is celebrated. And, since the liturgy is not for the faint-hearted, any time devoted to catechetical preparation will be well spent...

Welcome back to chocolate

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