As always, the Novena to the Sacred Heart forms the centrepiece of the June Messenger. The issue also carries many thought-provoking articles relevant to living a Christian life in today’s world. Some challenge the affront to the dignity that is the inalienable right of every human being – the practice of torture in some of our institutions, the impact on children of dysfunction within their families, the effects on mental health of discrimination against marginalised, indigenous and migrant peoples.  Yet, as Brendan Hoban observes, there is also cause for pride in the response of some organisations, individuals and indeed our government to the plight of the needy and those fleeing war.

Bishop Paul Dempsey considers Pope Francis’ call for synodality and suggests that it offers a ‘partnership in ministry’ model to Parish Pastoral Councils for the future. The theology of Laudato Si’ and its concept of our duty of care for the earth is articulated by John Feehan in the metaphor of the Tree of Life with every creature as part of a great oak of relationships. Related to this, Jane Mellett writes how the Laudato Si’ Action Plan offers us a roadmap to a more sustainable future.

Our popular regulars are here too – prayer, reflections, scripture as well as crosswords, cookery and young people’s pages. And RE:LINK has a great selection of activities, courses and suggestions for the school summer holidays ahead.