Church Workers killed in2009. A new report from the Vatican’s Fides agency shows the work of spreading the gospel is becoming increasingly dangerous. The report cites 37 murders of priests, Religious and lay workers during 2009, almost twice the number who perished in violent circumstances the previous year and the highest in the last decade.
————————————————
Peb Simmons is one of the long-term contributors to the MM (since 1967). She has retired from writing with failing eyesight. A much-published writer and spiritual guide, her contributions have enriched the magazine and will be greatly missed.
————————————————
The Crossword puzzle in the February MM was the last from our contributor ‘Appo’, who is in fact Bernard Hill, of Wainuiomata, husband of Nancy Hill, who also has written for the Messenger..We thank him for the hours of joy he provided and the occasional teaser compounded by the odd typo from the Messenger staff. The new Crossworder starts this month with the nom de plume of ‘Max’. He insists that MM does not stand for Mad Max.
Bernard Hill (aka Appo)with granddaughter Sophie.
Photo Adrian Heke/Caritas
