Readers will no doubt have their own strong opinions as to whether or not the end of this year marks a significant historical watershed either of a millennial or a centenary nature. Whatever of that, it does mark the end of the comparatively uneventful tenure of this editor-in-chief. Next year I will be moving to Rome to take over the establishing of a new department for the study of religions at the Pontifical Gregorian University – a somewhat daunting project but nonetheless an exciting one.
Being involved with Pacifica has provided a welcome opportunity to establish contact with many members of the theological academy in Australia and New Zealand after many years away. Although based in Melbourne since its inception, Pacifica involves writers from all parts of Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific, as well as contributors from North America and Europe. This year has seen a developing interest in sponsorship of the journal on the part of other Colleges of Divinity and Theology around the country. We hope to be able to announce next year an official relationship with at least two other bodies apart from the Melbourne College of Divinity, which has supported the journal so strongly in recent years.
The processes of a refereed journal are extraordinarily collegial and it has been impressive to see the generosity with which scholars undertake to engage with their colleagues’ work and help them to refine and polish it for publication. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work with members of the Pacifica Association and the editorial board, especially Dr Maryanne Confoy R.S.C., the book-review editor. In addition I have learned a great deal from Dr John Honner and Professor Frank Moloney S.D.B., two of the founding editors.
Later in this issue there appears an advertisement for the post of editor-in-chief. Until the position is filled, Dr Brendan Byrne S.J. has agreed to act in that capacity.
This issue also announces a small rise in the price of Pacifica. The increase is slightly larger than would be expected due to the imposition of the 10% Goods and Services Tax in the coming year. Even subscriptions paid in advance still by law attract the tax on any part of the subscription filled on or after 1 July 2000.