Strategies to cope with solitude
Q I moved to Newcastle for a new job about six months ago. Despite my job keeping me busy and the enjoyment I get from working with new people, I have become increasingly lonely. Unfortunately, my family, who live interstate, will be overseas for Christmas, which makes me feel even more lonely and isolated. I love Newcastle and want to stay here but I’m not sure how to overcome my loneliness.
Amazon synod questions celibacy
“Do I favour a celibate priesthood? Yes, I do,” says Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle’s Bishop Bill Wright.
St Nicholas is coming to town
We know Santa Claus traverses the globe in a reindeer-powered sleigh on Christmas Eve but more fascinating are the historical travels and travails of his progenitor St Nicholas.
Shape your shortbread
Are you looking for a homemade gift you can share with friends and family this Christmas?
One perfect day
It is surprising how dramatically someone’s life can change when they suddenly fit in.
Fires can’t destroy the heart of the people
Catastrophic fires burnt across NSW and Queensland throughout November and many readers will have firsthand experience of what it looked and felt like. It will remain raw for many of us for some time to come.
A pilgrim’s progress
As the bus pulled away from the last border checkpoint, I felt some lightening of my spirits.

































































































