Angels, Incense and Revolution: Catholic Schooldays of the 1960s

The 1960s era, with its Holdens, trams and Bex powders - was also a defining time for Australian Catholicism, with its Irish hymns, breezy hope, baby boomers, 'new Australians', sodalities and tombola - and a looming cultural revolution. This account tries to capture some of the spiritual and social ambience of those times, so poignant, so unforgettable, for those who lived through it. A beautiful journey into the past, the baby boomer years of peace and prosperity – captures the atmosphere of our schooldays with warmth and optimism. The dislocation and trauma experienced by many refugee families is analysed with honesty and humour. Writing style is personal and not sugar-coated. While not agreeing fully with her conclusions about the Church, I can understand how her experience of life has led her to them. I recommend this book to all who enjoy sharing the lives of others, especially Brigidine ex-students, baby boomers or the children of immigrants. -- Dianne Mullin, President of the Brigidine College Randwick Ex-Students Association. This is a ‘must read’ for all Brigidines. A fabulous journey back into the past, an era of fun, hope and happiness, which we were privileged to receive. -- Maureen O'Connor, teacher, psychologist, ex-Brigidine student. As I read Angels, Incense and Revolution, the memories came flooding back. Contrary to the general media picture, Wanda has nothing but praise for the dedicated, inspirational majority of religious who provided a rich education and a coherent Catholic worldview. Michael Gilchrist, author of several books, including Daniel Mannix: Wit and Wisdom (2004). A perfect insight into the Australian Catholic past, as seen from the inside, and how it suddenly vanished. --Professor James Franklin, Editor, Journal of the Australian Catholic Historical Society

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