What Does it Mean to Be a Saint?

In 2010 Mary MacKillop became the first Australian citizen to be officially proclaimed a saint by the Catholic Church. This event, and the long canonisation process which preceded it, has received much coverage in the Australian media. Yet confusion persists over what exactly it means to be a saint. In this book scholars from the Catholic Theological College of South Australia and the Flinders University School of Theology share reflections from different perspectives: historical, biblical, philosophical, theological, ethical, spiritual, liturgical and personal. Veneration of St Mary MacKillop is set in the context of a tradition which can be traced back to Christian martyrs in the ancient Roman Empire, and which, it is argued, is still meaningful today.

'Curious, ambivalent, passionate or cynical about what it means to be a saint? Having problems with miracles? Wanting to feel nourished and encouraged as you try to live a life of goodness amidst the complexities and mysteries of life? This compilation of insights - comprising history, theology, personal story and prayer - invites you into a contemporary unwrapping of what it means to live with integrity in the ordinary daily events of life. Whether you are Catholic or from another experience of faith, may it delight and challenge you - and most of all, speak to what is deepest within you.' - Geraldine Hawkes, Executive Officer, South Australian Council of Churches