In the last generation, much of the world has engaged in an unprecedented bloodbath through chemical and surgical abortions, starvation, "ethnic cleansing," and many other atrocities, displaying a blatant disregard for human life. Some have commented that, if God does not destroy us, He will have to apologize to Sodom and Gomorrah. Is there hope for our culture?

There is hope because:

• Jesus has already definitively conquered the evil one. He merely waits for His enemies to be placed beneath His feet (Heb 10:12-13).
• The Holy Spirit could prophesy new life into our culture, even if it were destroyed (Ez 37:4ff).
• God's "mercy triumphs over judgment" (Jas 2:13).
• Some of those victimized by the culture of death have accepted the miracle of forgiving and loving their enemies. There is great hope in the miracle of forgiveness.
• Some of the countless suffering people in our society have united their sufferings with the Passion and death of Jesus. Redemptive suffering can be a prelude to risen life.

We have hope, for Christ is within us (Col 1:27), and "this hope will not leave us disappointed, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit Who has been given to us" (Rm 5:5). Face reality and dreadful circumstances, then "rejoice in hope, be patient under trial, persevere in prayer" (Rm 12:12).

Nihil Obstat:  Reverend Richard L. Klug, January 16, 2004

Imprimatur:  †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, January 26, 2004