Book excerpt: Who would ever think of creating Christian haiku? John Mark Peterson did, and he has done the Christian faith a favor. For the entire Liturgical Year, Mark has authored haiku that are beautifully composed, biblically grounded, and spiritually enriching. They bring contemplation to the mind and joy to the heart. Read them! Father Th omas G. Weinandy, OFM, Cap. Capuchin College, Washington DC Former member of the Vatican’s International Theological Commission The biblical poetry contained in Before the Last Sky by John Mark Peterson has the potential to open new horizons for everyone who reads it. Faith comes by hearing, and the marvelous rhythm generated by Mark's creative combination of Scripture with the language of poetry affords the reader with encounters that can free heart, mind and soul. The great saint and poet Pope John Paul II said, "Faith frees thought and opens new horizons to the language of poetry” (March 18, 1994). What a beautiful blessing! Father Stan Fortuna, CFR