WELCOME TO THE SOCIAL EDGE

As we approach the 70th issue of The Social Edge, I've decided to take some time for rest and reflection. As a result, beginning on May 15, 2008 we will not be publishing a monthly issue any longer. As we move into July 2008, we'll be updating our readers on where the publication is heading.

     For this special issue, we selected interviews and columns from the past seven years. It wasn't easy making these selections. But it was interesting to discover new meaning in the ideas expressed by the activists, authors, journalists, and theologians who spoke to us over the years.

     I was particularly drawn to Paulist priest Thomas Ryan who talked to me three years ago about his book Reclaiming The Body in Christian Spirituality. "Simply taking a day of creative non-doing to re-generate our inner spirit is something that is hard for North Americans to do --and something for which we receive little support in the culture," he said.

     Fr. Ryan was critical of the emphasis in our culture upon efficiency and productivity. "It makes it so difficult for us to live with a Sabbath rhythm by taking a day each week to simply delight in all that is given: Life, health, family, friendship, the arts, and nature. And to know that it's not only okay, but doing so comes as a commandment of God at Sinai," he said.

     Other selections we've included this month are interviews with Sr. Helen Prejean, Kathy Kelly, Fr. Diarmuid O'Murchu, Senator George McGovern, and Fr. Roy Bourgeois.

     Reviewing our archives from the past seven years also reminded me of the fine writing of Ted Schmidt, Maura Hanrahan, Paul Butler, and Mark Klempner. I will miss their distinct voices every month.

     I must also thank Robyn Lee who faithfully provided excellent copy-editing and editorial support. I will miss her encouragement and optimism. Thanks also to Kathy Perry who provided many book reviews and editorial support when needed.

     A special thanks to my co-publisher Peter Robson who persisted with his vision of web publishing when I had my doubts. Your moral support and expertise were appreciated. We weathered many storms together, but managed to keep our spirits up.

     Heartfelt thanks to all our advertisers and to Ontario-PLURA and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peterborough who helped us launch our publication in February 2001.

     Finally, thanks to our readers. Many of you wrote with encouragement and ideas. Every month we tried to produce the best issue we could and it was good to hear from you by letter, telephone, or e-mail.

     I've been blessed with the opportunity to publish a social justice and faith magazine. It's enriched my own faith and constantly reminded me of the importance of speaking to the problems of our age with hope, love, and mercy.

Peace,
Gerry McCarthy
Publisher

Editor's Note: My wife Sheila O'Keefe-McCarthy has been a constant source of support over the past seven years. I'm not sure I could have started the publication without her loving care and spirit. My son Conor has been patient and supportive with the publication's deadlines from the beginning. My mother Mary McCarthy has been an unfailing source of love, care, and encouragement. Thanks also to my mother-in-law Teresa O'Keefe for her support and good wishes. Finally, my brothers Todd and John (and their families) have always given me their love and companionship. I also dedicate this issue to my father John A. McCarthy (1932-1997). His integrity, humility, and faith continue to inspire me.