An important -- though often overlooked –  function of maps is to shake us up. Grabbing our attention, showing us something about our world we never thought about, is part of their job.  They jab us into mindfulness. A prime example is the Peters World Map; people beyond counting simply give it a knee-jerk rejection.  “It is so different, it can’t be right!” is typical.

Today we bring you two views that open up a range of new perspectives. Whether you smile inwardly or laugh out loud, whether you join in support or fire off a critical letter – I invite you to view these as enriching takes on how we view the world.

Are you Catholic? Protestant? Or do you practice another faith? Or count yourself among the “nones”?

Whatever your answer, here’s a date for your calendar: October 31. It’s more than Halloween! In 2017 that date will not only throw new light on an event 500 years ago, a moment that rocked the world; it will also help us understand certain perplexing realities of our time.