America magazine today announced that Fr. Drew Christiansen, S.J. is stepping down as editor of the storied Jesuit weekly and will be replaced in October by Fr. Matt Malone, S.J.
As many of you know, I began my blogging career at America and was greatly blessed to work with Fr. Christiansen, who, among other gifts, knows more about Catholic social teaching, and its nexus with the whole of Catholic theology, than almost anyone I know. I also have had delightful exchanges by email with Fr. Malone over the years and have, through his writings, become acquainted with a mind that can best be described as penetrating. He is an excellent choice to lead the journal.
Father Christiansen will be taking a sabbatical and then teach. Somewhere out there are some very lucky students at a Jesuit college who will soon have the benefit of his learning. I extend all good wishes to him in the future and offer Fr. Malone a hearty welcome back.
