Several of the articles in this issue reflect an interest in philosophical discussions that may seem to some to be too arid and complex for a theological journal.  Postmodernism and deconstructionist ideas continue to attract both authors and readers, however, and belong centrally to the dialogue between theology faculties and the universities.  It may be the case, of course, that this editor has a predilection for philosophical theology, and indeed there will be at least one further piece on philosophical theology in the next number of the journal.  Furthermore, it can be noted, the articles offered here are of high quality: antipodeans do seem to have something worth saying on these matters.  For example, Terry Veling’s work, part of which is reproduced in this issue, is about to be published internationally.  Again, a distinguished American reader reflects on another locally written article in this issue:

"This is one of the most original and insightful treatments of Thomas Aquinas that I have read in many years.... After the immense library of literature that has accumulated around Aquinas, above all in our own time, one would not think that there is anything new to add.... Martis’s grasp of Aquinas is obviously very acute and his capacity to interpret the work of Aquinas in the light of the logic, or alogic, of the gift in Marion and Derrida, is extraordinary.  His interpretation is original, persuasive, and illuminating.... This is brilliant work and I am extremely impressed."

With reports like these, the journal is proud of the quality of its contributions and the standards it sets, even if they veer towards too much philosophy.

The editorial board has not failed to notice a decline in the number of articles coming from a wider range of backgrounds and interests in the theological disciplines and communities.  Perhaps our academic style has alienated some potential contributors; perhaps others have sensed (mistakenly) that the journal is not ecumenical in its interests; perhaps there is regret that women are under-represented as contributors.  Three years ago we called for articles reflecting research in early church writings, and were gratified to receive many excellent submissions. Today we urge a wider range of authors to submit their research to Pacifica.

It is true that the journal sees itself as an academic forum, but we maintain the express intention of bringing academic discussions into the day-to-day life of the Christian communities.  It is not true, on the other hand, that the journal has a deliberate bias towards Roman Catholic theology, nor that it is unsympathetic to women’s contributions and interests.

Articles submitted to Pacifica usually go through a specialist reader and a member of the editorial board before being accepted.  Occasionally, perhaps, we have made mistakes in the past in accepting and rejecting articles.  Today, where there is some uncertainty about a decision, then a third reader is often used.  Every effort is made to find a way in which submitted articles of quality can be brought to publication.  For a variety of reasons, only about one in four of submitted articles is published in the journal.  Potential authors are reminded of the advice to authors on the inside back cover; sadly some manuscripts sent to the editors are not presented in acceptable form, nor, indeed, are they ready for publication.

Readers will note in this issue not only a slight change in our format, but also a number of changes in style.  These are, for the most part, guided by that excellent tome: Lawrence D. McIntosh, A style manual for the presentation of papers and theses in religion and theology (Wagga Wagga: Centre for Information Studies, 1994).  Writers are encouraged to follow suit. 

Due to concurrent increases in postage, printing and salaries, the cost of a subscription to Pacifica has once again had to be increased.  Thanks to your support and to sponsorship from the Melbourne College of Divinity, the journal is in a sound financial position and enjoys good scholarly repute.  If Pacifica  is to be more firmly established, however, and if it is to expand in size and to be promoted professionally, then the time has come to accrue some funds.  We are hopeful that in the next few years the journal will enjoy the security of professional production arrangements, that it will expand either in the number of pages per issue or the number of issues per year, and that in 1996 it will be available, in the first instance by list of contents and abstracts, on the internet.  We are also hopeful that soon the journal will be more closely linked with some other Australian theological centres. 

We would like to hold subscriptions to a level that will attract individuals as well as institutions: if there are any generous benefactors out there willing to subsidise individual subscriptions by contributing to the Pacifica Association, please turn your whims into actions.  In the meantime, may the New Year offer peace.