Hearts and Minds Anew

It has been some time since we have caught up with Fr Peter Malone MSC but he has been busy writing!

Born in Sydney, a priest since 1965 and reviewing films since 1968, he has taught theology and scripture at the University of Divinity (formerly Melbourne College of Divinity), at the National Pastoral Institute and the Heart of Life Centre for Spirituality and Pastoral Formation. In addition to his academic roles, he was the first President of SIGNIS – World Catholic Organisation for Communication – from 2001 to 2005. In 2008, the University of Divinity conferred on him the Degree of Doctor of Sacred Theology (Honoris Causa) in recognition of his “outstanding contribution to theological learning and education, especially for his significant contribution to bringing a critical Christian perspective to the study, interpretation and enjoyment of the visual media”.

Whilst negotiating the demands of his dual career, Peter has written over 30 books that cover the subjects of theology, psychology, spirituality, and film including Jesus…According to the Scriptures, Hearts Burning Within Us for Lectio Divina, Screen Jesus, Screen Priests and Dear Movies amongst many others.

His new book titled 10 Minutes is a fresh way to approach the study of the Bible.

In this book Fr Peter asks us to take 10 minutes and suggests for us to read a chapter in the book that will introduce a Bible story that will lead us to another 10 minutes of reflection, prayer and sharing. The approach is described as ‘writing your own Gospel’ – inviting us to recall our own versions of the life and teachings of Jesus – those favourite passages that have shaped our personal (and group) identities as disciples within the community called the church.

Fr Peter acknowledges that this approach probably reflects how the original stories were remembered, shared, modified, and finally written down in the four Gospels of our New Testament.  It is also an approach that, in our times, recognises the effect of film, stage and television on how those ancient messages have been shaped and recalled.

The reflections in 10 Minutes will move our hearts and minds to learn anew the revelation of what our God is like through the life of Jesus and the teaching of the Gospel.

The book will be published early October 2021 and is available for pre-order at Coventry Press

By Kate Baines