There is something about the sense of autumn that infuses me with so much energy. It has always meant a time of returning: returning to school, to old friends, to new challenges, and to a way of life that was a rhythm unto itself. I still feel the pull of that sensation every September. In fact, if I had kept a proper journal, I'm sure that I would discover a pattern of events that evolve every fall. Don and I married in September. That cycle seems to have become part of the flow of my own life.

When I look at this picture, I remember one brilliant golden tree not far from my high school. As co-editor of the high school annual yearbook, I had gathered friends and the photographer together at that tree for what would become a "cover photo". And now, some thirty-odd years later have returned to a similar scene/familiar theme, repeating that pattern that has turned out to be a "calling".

I am reminded of the story of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) for whom "returning" or "home-coming" changed his whole existence, as he experienced it. We know that he was not the same person who had left home at the beginning of the story. The father was the one who shaped the experience of his return, even though the Prodigal Son chose to go home; had to go home. It was the father who saw him from afar, welcomed, affirmed, and loved him into new life.

The secondary theme of this issue of EcuMiniNet™ Online! asks, "Where are we in the shaping of home-coming, or of 'returning' for faith seekers?" In the wake of the tragedy in New York and a nation that has been shocked and is full of sorrow, that sense of gathering together and the priorities of home and faith are taking on new and deeper meaning.This is a "heart" question for all of us in the entire community of Christian faith. This is our business. This is our "calling". It is time for us to reflect on what gives us such great joy; the blessing of family, friends, faith, and future.

In this issue of EcuMiniNet™ Online! the photography, articles, poetry, and prose are about breathing and loving new life into that rhythm of faith. We can pray together for healing, for wholeness, for "home-coming"…and what that will now mean to so many families. And yes, we shall pray for a new life in faith, a new understanding of what it really means to be the "body of Christ". It is my prayer that this issue will inspire you with new vision and new passion for your faith, your life, and your…no make that "our" ministry, however that is named

Janine C. Hagan, Editor-in-Chief

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