Triumph of the Cross People often ask me about my work as editor of ML, about the process of constructing each issue as well as planning each volume year. Some people think that articles just fly in from the ether, I pick the ones I want for each issue, look them over for typos and doctrinal errors, and send them on to be published. That’s an interesting scenario, but it couldn’t be further from the truth. Each year, in early summer, we conceptualize the overall focus that ML will take for the following year. From that general focus, I draw thematic concepts that I feel are a good match for each of the 10 issues. From those concepts I consider what types of articles our readers might benefit from or enjoy, and then I begin the long process of finding writers with the skill and background to address those areas. I propose titles to them, and they generally tweak them a little to fit their own style. A similar process exists for recruiting our column writers. They are challenged to write in a general subject area but are also asked to focus their attention on the theme of each issue. This whole process is guided and informed by prayer and reflection by all involved. The time between agreeing on a title and receiving the articles in my electronic inbox is an interval during which the Holy Spirit dances. I am always surprised by the results. The direction our writers choose and the perspectives they offer can be unexpected in a variety of ways. Sometimes they are so close to one another thematically and even in phrasing that I fear readers will think they were not written independently. Other times they present divergent viewpoints, and that is always fertile ground for lively discussion. Sometimes it’s hard to see the connections between the focus and the features at all. But however an issue comes together, it is always authentic. This issue of ML is a reflection on the Triumph of the Cross, illustrating many facets of that cross. The cross is a reminder of Christian responsibility, and Joseph Martos echoes this concept as he suggests a more practical approach to discussing (and writing about) liturgy than our academic liturgists have traditionally presented. Observing worship practice and talking with people engaging in those practices is, he feels, the more responsible path to better liturgical experiences. Proclaiming the cross is Patricia A. Parachini, who offers insight into the state of lay preaching in the United States. Certainly this practice, at this point in time, stands in the shadow of the cross. Following the cross is part of the call of every disciple, and Paige Byrne Shortal completes her two-part series on building and sustaining choir community in this issue. The image of the cross itself has an impact on who we are as a Christian people, and Barbara Krug shares some interpretations of that image both in history and in our own time. The reason I described the process of forming an issue of ML is that the direction this issue took was unexpected, and there is always grace in that. The focus is much more subtle than I had anticipated, but the result is quite profound. Each feature reflects in a unique way how the cross impacts our lives and ministry. With a symbol that is at once both simple and complex, this should not be surprising. The cross holds the promise of life in death, assurance of salvation, and freedom from the slavery of sin. It is a reminder of our identity and a model for life. It is both consolation and challenge. May we always rejoice in its mystery. Lord Jesus Christ, most tender King, As ev’ry day and hour goes by, Protect us with the sacred sign Of your great love and sacrifice. So that we may throughout our lives Rejoice to praise you as we should, Our will inspiring mind and voice To serve you with our heart’s delight. With Father and the Spirit One, All glory, Jesus, be to you, Who by the triumph of the Cross Will lead us to eternal life. Amen. — Signum salutis, Hymn, Morning Prayer, Triumph of the Cross ML SUBSCRIBE NOW! What do YOU Think? Send an e-mail to ML Editor or post an entry on the ML Current Issue Discussion Board. (All submissions become the property of RPI and may be edited for length.)