Editorial

This is the first issue of the new production team and, yes, it’s me again. I’m showing my commitment to Christis (or alternatively my inability to say no) by staying on as editor for another year.

This is definitely my favourite time of year, when trees are displaying all their autumn colours and you can watch ducks walking on the frozen lake. It’s very cold in York this time of year, but it’s very beautiful too. Winter just as much as Summer makes me reflect on the wonder of God’s creation.

And, of course, this is the time of year when we look forward to Christmas, and dread the effect it will have on our bank balance. Have you seen the Christmas Boots adverts? ‘Because giving feels good and giving more feels better’. That’s rubbish! Christmas is about sharing and being with loved ones. Do not become ensnared by the commercialisation of Christmas. Presents don’t have to be expensive to hit the mark.

In this issue we have an article by Johannes de Jong on Halloween, and Dave Maclure compares Jesus to Guy Fawkes. Helen Bourne takes a look at the book of Lamentations, and Greg Melia considers the new religious hatred bill. We also have a fun quiz to distract you from writing essays and wrapping Christmas presents.

Keep those articles coming in! We had a great selection this time, as you can see. If you have any strong opinions to get off your chest or want to try your hand at theology, we welcome all submissions. Just send them to us at socs90@york.ac.uk.

Lizzie Freear