It was sixty-three years ago today (June 2, 1951) that Pope Pius XII issued his Encyclical, Evangelii Praecones (On Promotion of Catholic Missions). Obviously, the Encyclical addressed the prevalent issues of the times, but it is interesting to note how many of those issues are still relevant today. Apparently, society continues to grapple with some aspects of life one generation after another.
I would like to quote paragraph 70 in its entirety.
70. Venerable Brethren, you are well aware that almost the whole human race is today allowing itself to be driven into two opposing camps, for Christ or against Christ. The human race is involved today in a supreme crisis, which will issue in its salvation by Christ, or in its dire destruction. The preachers of the Gospel are using their talents and energy to extend the Kingdom of Christ; but there are other preachers who, since they profess materialism and reject all hope of eternal happiness, are trying to drag men down to an abject condition.
As we observe contemporary life it is evident that the two opposing camps referred to by Pope Pius XII are still here, and possibly, more entrenched than ever. A quick glance at the social issues front and center in the news certainly reveals the divide in American culture, and I assume the same can be said for many other countries across the world. I have two questions for reflection. The first is my own and the second comes straight from Scripture.
1. Which camp do we find ourselves located—for Christ or against Christ?
2. “When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” Luke 18:8
I would like to quote paragraph 70 in its entirety.
70. Venerable Brethren, you are well aware that almost the whole human race is today allowing itself to be driven into two opposing camps, for Christ or against Christ. The human race is involved today in a supreme crisis, which will issue in its salvation by Christ, or in its dire destruction. The preachers of the Gospel are using their talents and energy to extend the Kingdom of Christ; but there are other preachers who, since they profess materialism and reject all hope of eternal happiness, are trying to drag men down to an abject condition.
As we observe contemporary life it is evident that the two opposing camps referred to by Pope Pius XII are still here, and possibly, more entrenched than ever. A quick glance at the social issues front and center in the news certainly reveals the divide in American culture, and I assume the same can be said for many other countries across the world. I have two questions for reflection. The first is my own and the second comes straight from Scripture.
1. Which camp do we find ourselves located—for Christ or against Christ?
2. “When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” Luke 18:8
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