Seeing Haloes

John (Jack) Shea is a consultant with decades of experience in providing theological and formation services to parishes and faith-based organizations. He has published over twenty books of theology and spirituality (including Liturgical Press’s popular Spiritual Wisdom of the Gospels series), three novels, and three books of poetry. He lectures nationally and internationally on storytelling in world religions, faith-based health care, contemporary spirituality, and the spirit work movement. Visit jackshea.org to learn more. Mark McMahon has been documenting people and their environments nationally and internationally for more than forty years. His on-location works are included in museums, exhibitions, private and corporate collections. He is a second-generation Chicago artist.

Contents
 Introduction
Christmas Poems to Open the Heart   ix
Poems
Seeing Haloes   1
How the Word Made Flesh Seeks the Salvation of All   4
Christmas Coffee   7
Christmas Time   10
Spirits at Christmas   13
Green River Christmas   15
My Father’s Shoulder   17
A Christmas Touch   19
Open Invitation   21
Christmas Tooth   24
Christmas Shopping   27
Christmas Remembered   34
Sharon’s Christmas Prayer   36
Crèche Characters Ask Questions   39
     The Angel   39
     The Shepherds   43
     The Sheep   46
     The Wise Men   50
     Joseph   53
     Mary   55
     The Child in the Manger   58
The Light Shines in the Darkness   62
Christmas Carolers   64
   The Song of Zachary   65
   The Song of Simeon   67
   The Song of Mary   70
Beloved Child   74