Signs of the Times  

    "I consider nothing better or more opportune
        than to recommend and promote this method of prayer
        so that, by the Rosary and as a result of its frequent consideration
        of the mysteries of salvation, faith may be made more alive
        in the hearts of men, and the sacred fire of prayer may be enkindled anew
        and may glow as a pledge of peace, of moral elevation and of prosperity."
                                                                                                                    Pope Leo XIII


    "If all the devils should be arraigned against me before the judgment
        seat of God; if the whole of hell should rise up against me and open up its jaws
        to devour me; if all the saints should desert me; if thou, O Mary, wouldst only speak
        one word of intercession--I should be saved."
                                                                                                            Francisco Suarez


    PART I        THREE DAYS OF DARKNESS


    It is not our intention to inspire fear to the public, except for the healthy "fear of the Lord", the gift of the Holy Spirit, which, when accepted, brings a right will, a good life, filial confidence in God and true peace of mind and heart.  We have tried  to balance the prospect and probability of a coming fearsome, even possibly apocalyptic like events, with the reassurances from God Himself, Scriptural and otherwise prophetical, of His care and protection for those of His children who remain faithful to Him.  Under the shadow of His wings, we can rejoice and not only feel but be absolutely feel secure.

    There is no need for fear or anxiety or worry, or a restless striving to figure out or anticipate future events, especially their exact timing.  As Jesus revealed to a seer, he said; "None of MY creatures will fathom My thoughts and plans!  None of the people on earth will know the day and the hour of the punishment.  It will come suddenly!"  He is speaking here of the final great Chastisement.  What is important is that we put ourselves in the arms of Jesus and Mary while we do work hard at prayer, penance, reparation, etc.  Such activities can prevent, mitigate or alleviate as much as possible the very chastisements which are becoming due because of the justice of God.  Who is growing wrathful over the terrible evils, the great amount of sins and scandals in this world that has forgotten Him--His world.

    We must also remember that the very Chastisement itself is intended for our purification and good.  It will result in a triumph of God and for those faithfulto Him in these troubled times.  The one important thing is to be and remain in the state of sanctifying grace, in the friendship of the Creator, so it has always been vital for everyone at any moment in time or place.  We are not promised anymore than today.  "Sufficient for the day is the evil thereof."  When tomorrow comes, God will give His graces then... 

    Part II will continue next....