“Journey” is one of those words used so frequently about things religious that it’s very nearly a cliche. And why not? “Journey” implies movement, change of perspective, seeing something new.

That’s why journey is a good metaphor for Holy Week, which we’re just beginning, and the Easter season which follows. Certainly the Stations of the Cross, depicted on the cover of this issue, captures the sense of journey, as we walk with Jesus on the path of salvation.

But there’s more.

Inside are a couple of articles which touch on the journey of faith, from discovery to celebration. That’s the journey of RCIA—the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults—which is at the heart of many parishes’ efforts to connect with those touched by the need for a faith community in their lives.

You can read about two such “journeys” on Page 13, describing how the journey of faith culminates with a celebration of belonging at the Easter Vigil. That’s the “personal” side of RCIA. For a church perspective on the process, veteran evangelizer Jackie Pokorny explains it in The Interview on Page 7.

And yes, there’s still more.

Sometimes “journeys” of faith are interior ones without physical movement. Sometimes, though, those journeys take the believer far away.

On Pages 15-26 you can read about hundreds of men and women who allowed the breath of the Spirit to blow them here and there. Some became missionaries in foreign lands. Others marched from school to school, from ministry to ministry on their faith journeys.

Read the stories of these religious jubilarians, marking 60, 70 and even 85 years of service to their Lord. Theirs are remarkable stories of commitment and mission. You’ll be humbled by their efforts for faith; I know I am.

And more.

There are journeys yet to come. And they can use your help. The Catholic New World is partnering with the St. Alphonsus Liguori Parish (Prospect Heights)Youth Ministry to help teens join a mission trip this summer to Mexico where they will work ministering to the poor.

It’s a journey (there’s that word again) you can help. The youths are selling subscriptions to The Catholic New World; a portion of each sale will build up their treasury for the trip.

When they return, we’ll help them tell the story of their journeys in these pages. If you think you can assist, or want more information, call Lea Dacanay, (312) 382-3346.

Finally, here’s a correction and giving credit where credit is due: The cover of the last issue showed a youngster at Children of Peace school ringing a bell for peace, something that’s happening in many archdiocesan schools. The words, from the old Peter, Paul and Mary folk song, were misstated. They should have read: “If I had a hammer ...”

The Bells of Peace program had its genesis with Maryann Hoban, a pastoral associate at Holy Name Cathedral. She deserves great credit for giving us all an opportunity to challenge violence and war with the traditional Christian sound of ringing bells.

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