Avant-propos - Studia Moralia

Avant-propos: 40 years
of Studia Moralia
Introducing the first issue of Studia Moralia in 1962, Fr. J. Visser
C.Ss.R. explains, in Latin, that the purpose of this journal is not to
add to the already large number of periodicals in existence, but rather
to make available the fruit of current research on fundamental
and practical themes of moral theology.
There is no need to rehearse here how much has changed in the
world, and in moral theology, since 1962. The challenging task is to
try to respond to these changes while remaining faithful to the initial
project.
In biographical terms, 40 years is a land-mark at which the socalled
existential questions emerge: What has it all meant so far?
Where do we go from here? What if…? Perhaps these same questions
can help us all (authors, editorial board and readers) in the course of
this anniversary year in the on-going task of defining the role, shape
and goal of Studia Moralia, not least through a more adequate interpretation
of its history. The second issue of this year will include
more extensive considerations of this kind, in the preparation of
which we welcome comment, critique and suggestions.
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The fact that Studia Moralia is still here to pose itself such interesting
questions is thanks to the generous collaboration of generations
of contributors, editors and collaborators. Particular recognition
is due at this juncture to the former editor Prof. Raphael
Gallagher, of the Alphonsian Academy. Prof. Gallagher has served,
along with his colleagues, diligently and creatively as Secretary of the
Commission for Studia Moralia since 1996. In these years the journal
has seen a number of significant developments. Through a period of
experimentation, a format for the layout has been found that is
agreeable to the eye and clear to the mind. The polyglottal nature of