our age, and strengthened “spiritual energies . . . toward real and
everlasting goodness.”
In this Issue
I suggest you begin by reading Father John Kamas’ fine retrospective on
Vatican II and then turn to Father Paul Bernier’s incisive article on the first
of the “magnificent seven” — Lumen Gentium, the Dogmatic Constitution
on the Church. LG defines who and what the church is, as articulated
by the bishops of Vatican II under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. And
enjoy Bishop Robert Morneau’s brief yet powerful reflection on Lumen
Gentium.
When we think of the church, all of us are aware of and humbled by
the divisions that have set Christians at odds with each other and
blunted the church’s mission effectiveness. Deacon Owen Cummings
introduces us to the efforts of the late Jesuit ecumenist Michael Hurley
to bring healing and hope amid the sectarian violence and mistrust of
his native Ireland and beyond.
January 31st is the centennial of the birth of Thomas Merton, the
beloved Trappist monk, writer, and activist who died prematurely in
1968 at the age of 53. Reverend Victor Parachin offers a wonderful
overview of Merton’s life, his interior journey, and his passion for
holiness and truth, complete with quotes from his writings.
Editorial Board
With this issue, I announce the formation of a new Editorial Board
for Emmanuel and thank the outgoing board members for their very
generous service over many years. We look forward to and invite their
continued collaboration.
Father Donald Cozzens
Father Ernest Falardeau, SSS
Father Edward Foley, OFM Cap
Bishop Robert F. Morneau
New Editorial Board
Sister Lisa Marie Belz, OSU
Father Thomas Dragga
Dr. James Menkhaus
Father Gilbert Ostdiek, OFM
A joyous and grace-filled 2015!
Anthony Schueller, SSS
Editor