A New Day: Writing During the Pandemic on Relationships, Responsibility and Spiritual Renewal

In March 2020, Major Peter McGuigan felt compelled to write about his observations of life amid the unfolding global health crisis. What resulted was 11 essays focused on people's desire for a new normal for their lives through enriching relationships, taking personal and collective responsibility for creating a better world, and profound spiritual renewal.

In this unique volume, the essays now form a compilation of hope and assurance for our post-pandemic life. The writing is beautifully complemented by stunning photography by the writer's son, Gareth McGuigan, that captures the concept of 'a new day' visually. The books dimensions are 21 x 21 cm.

Graphic artist Jooles Tostevin-Hobbs has brought the writing and the photography together in a way that will empower readers and leave them with restored hope and expectancy for the future. All who have worked on the project believe that A New Day is a gift at this turning point for humankind. In his Foreword, Professor Graeme Young describes this essence:

'One can read and reread these essays and be refreshed each time. Not only that, but the photographs complement the text and jolt us back to the wonder of our world and the assurance that a new day is a tangible possibility for us all.' Published by Salvation Books, A New Day would make a meaningful gift for loved ones, friends and colleagues across all areas of our lives, especially with Good Friday and Easter Sunday approaching.

'The collation, including the 'Reflection' sections at the end of each chapter, is not only a wonderful guide to personal meditation and renewal, but is structured in a way that is useful for group conversations, even by Zoom! One can read and reread these essays and be refreshed each time. Not only that, but the photographs complement the text and jolt us back to the wonder of our world and the assurance that a new day is a tangible possibility for us all.' - Graeme P. Young, Matthew Flinders Distinguished Professor Emeritus, Flinders University, South Australia

'Peter McGuigan has provided all of us who have survived the global pandemic with a valuable, reassuring resource to companion us on our journey into the uncertainties of the season ahead. The exquisite photographs complement the meaningful text, resulting in a centring experience - visually, intellectually, emotionally and spiritually. What a timely gift!' - Colonel Janet Munn, Co-Director, The Salvation Army International Social Justice Commission, New York, USA

'Dundu, or 'big hill' is two thirds along the road that branches from the main highway and leads to Chikankata Mission in Zambia. From Dundu, one can look back on the twists and turns of the journey already taken, and then turn and see blurry glimpses of the destination. 'Dundu moments' are important in life. This book is a welcome and helpful 'Dundu moment' in relation to the pandemic.' - Commissioners Janine and Robert Donaldson, Territorial Leaders, The Salvation Army Australia

'A timely and wonderful collection, helping us to reflect on our lives in the light of such a global upheaval.' - Rod Yule, General Manager, Local Mission Delivery, The Salvation Army Australia

'Written during the COVID-19 pandemic, A New Day offers encouragement and fresh insights through both the written word and beautiful photographic images. The Australian focus does not lessen the book's likely usefulness in other cultural settings. The author, a committed Christian leader, sees a brighter future emerging for humanity post-COVID. Readers with receptive and open minds will come to share his hope of a better world. Peter McGuigan's book will stimulate, bless and inspire individual readers, as well as proving a useful tool for group discussion.' - Commissioner Birgitte Brekke-Clifton, former International Secretary for Programme Resources, The Salvation Army International Headquarters, London.

'We are in a season of challenge like none in recent history; unless, of course, you happen to live in a place of famine, or civil war, or where abject poverty traps people in slavery. But for the rest of us, the global COVID -19 pandemic has brought such disruption, anxiety, exhaustion, grief and despair that our usual coping strategies may have been stretched to breaking point.

'This helpful collection of essays extends an invitation to sit with our discomforting feelings, rather than hide from them. To listen for what God - who loves us without end - is saying to us. And to reach out for hope and renewal. To realise that in both the best and the worst of times it is always good to be near God.

'The stunning photos that open each chapter are a reminder of the splendour of God's world. Each offers an opportunity to pause and breathe in the grandeur of God, repositioning ourselves in trusting humility before our Creator. The additional thoughts and gentle questions at the close of each chapter allow individuals and groups to consider what COVID-19 means for us where we live - and what it might yet mean for us in our relating to others.' - Major Christina Tyson, Corps Officer, Wellington South, The Salvation Army New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa

-Publisher.