‘A Revolution of the Spirit’: a South African book of daily reflections for Lent 2014

• Lent is a profoundly important period for Christians – remembering the journey of the Israelites from slavery to freedom; and preparing for the suffering, death and Resurrection of Jesus.
• Lent 2014 is an especially important period for South Africans – remembering the 20th anniversary of democracy; and preparing for the upcoming general election.
• What is our individual and national experience of journeying from darkness to light? What does Reconciliation now demand of us?

Fr Anthony Egan SJ reflects on these overlapping journeys with a double-page reflection for each day. He draws inspiration from the daily readings used by Catholics, Anglicans and Methodists, and also uses quotations from political activists and from the Scriptures of other religions. Have we, he asks, reached the Promised Land, and how will we know when we do?

Fr Nick King SJ, a well known columnist in South Africa, recommends the book with these words: “This outstanding book of Lenten meditations faces squarely (and with Bible in hand) the stark challenges of the reality of South Africa today.”

Anthony has dedicated the book to Archbishop Denis Hurley on the 10th anniversary of his death. While facing trial, and accused of mixing religion and politics, Hurley pronounced: ‘The Gospel is political.’ Anthony helps us to take seriously the relationship between religion and politics, taking up Pope Francis’ recent challenge: “Participation in political life is a moral obligation.”