Article: Travels with my brother, St Francis Xavier

Travels with my brother, St Francis Xavier Image

Travels with my brother, St Francis Xavier

  • September 23, 2013

Many readers will remember the visit to the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle last year of the Relic of St Francis Xavier and its custodian, Fr Richard Shortall SJ. During his “travels with my brother” all around Australia, Fr Richard kept a diary and this book is the outcome of his diligent jottings. It’s a very accessible account of the pilgrimage and includes information on the life of St Francis Xavier and prayers composed for the Year of Grace.

 

Travels with my Brother was launched last week at St Mary’s Cathedral Crypt by Bishop Peter Comensoli. Bishop Peter initiated the visit of the Relic which ‘belongs’ in Rome. For the Relic to travel, the Congregation of the Saints, the Jesuits and the Italian Government all had to give permission.

 

The book includes many photos, including some taken locally, and Fr Richard writes with affection of various memorable incidents and encounters – including checking the football scores during ‘quiet time’ with the Relic!

 

Speaking at the book launch, Fr Richard said he hoped Travels with my Brother would “rekindle your memories of being in the presence of the Relic”. 

 

Copies can be ordered from Freedom Publishing:

 

Retail price:  $19.95. For bulk orders of 5 or more please phone (03) 9816 0888 for a special price.

 

Phone:         (03) 9816 0888

Fax:             (03) 9816 0899

Email:           orders@freedompublishing.com.au

 

Postage:       $5.00 for the first copy and $2 for each additional copy to a maximum of $11 – orders over $100 are postage free (within Australia).