In this issue

The Apostolic Tradition and the Roman Rite
Liam G. Walsh, O.P., continues his series of articles on ‘The Mass: Yesterday, Today, Forever’, by outlining the ways in which the social conventions of Roman life influenced the shape of the liturgy.

Kenosis in Martin Scorsese’s Silence
Joseph S. O’Leary reflects on the film of the Sushaku Endo novel, Silence, directed by Martin Scorsese. He suggests that the film, far from being depressing, may leave viewers with the weight of a divine silence in their hearts, perhaps the ambiguous silence of a gracious divine presence.

Climate Justice: There Are No Jobs on a Dead Planet, Mr President
David Begg contrasts President Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Paris Accord with the insights of Pope Francis on care for the earth.

Amoris Laetitia and Current Debates
In Ireland on Divorce and Abortion
John Mangan hopes that upcoming debates about divorce and abortion can be the occasion for the church to promote the moral growth of individuals and society on these questions. He sees in the apostolic letter Amoris Laetitia of Pope Francis a perfect instrument for such a process.

Church and State; a Necessary Realignment
T.P. O’Mahony gives the history of the classical political doctrine of separate of church and state, and analyses the position in Ireland.

Hope Is the Touchstone
Eamon Maher reviews Fasting and Feasting: Radio Reflections on Christmas and Easter, by Aidan Mathews.

Doctrine & Life Magazine Description:

Ten times a year, Doctrine & Life maintains a dialogue between the inheritance of Christian faith and the concerns of today’s world – political, artistic and economic. It includes articles which relate the wisdom of the church's tradition with questions arising in the modern world and articles on the concerns of young religious.

* `provides a stimulating mix of theological reflection and pastoral challenge.’ Bishop Donal Murray
* `keeps alive undaunted the authentic spirit of Vatican II. Concerned Christians need its informed insights more than ever today.’ Louis McRedmond