I read an article from Pew Research the other day that saddened my soul.
It was entitled The Future of World Religions, and it does not present very encouraging predictions.
Christianity, according to the article, may no longer be the world's most dominant religion sometime around 2050. In fact, cumulatively through 2050, Pew predicts that 40 million people will switch into Christianity while a whopping 106 million will switch out (by FAR the most out of any religion). And those switching out are mostly expected to switch to an "unaffiliated" status.
Can you imagine that? Christ asked us to continue to spread His word, and the world is going in the opposite direction.
In the U.S. alone, Christianity will shrink from 78% in 20101 to 66% by 2050. Europe will see a similar decline. Conversely, Christians in sub-Saharan Africa will rise from 24% to 38%, and stay about the same in Latin America.
Are all these stats and predictions 100% percent accurate? Of course not. But the mere chance that they might be is eye-opening.
The good thing is that we can help influence this course through example and prayer.
Please join me in praying for the strengthening - and growth - of our Faith around the world.
God Bless you.
...
please consider taking the next 2 minutes and join me in saying a Decade of the Rosary for those souls who have no one to pray for them.
Thank you and God Bless.
I see the destruction of Superstorm Sandy all around me, and I wonder how people will deal with the giant trees on their houses. Or the debris blocking the roads. Or not having power for two weeks.
But mostly, I pray.
I wonder how we could get a Nor'easter in November, and how people with no power kept warm in the middle of a snowstorm.
But mostly, I pray.
I wonder how people can give blankets and coats to those who lost everything, and then curse each other out while waiting on a mile-long gas line.
But mostly, I pray.
I wonder if America made the right decision to re-elect President Obama, and how much more of God's will will be removed from this country.
But mostly, I pray.
I wonder if people used these past two weeks to reflect on all that God has given them, and realize that even if they lost their home, clothes, gadgets, cars and power, they will still have the most important thing in the world. His love.
But mostly, I pray.
God Bless.
Two weeks ago someone rear-ended my car. Nothing bad, just a few scratches. But the woman was texting or talking on the phone instead of paying attention, so I was steaming mad when it happened. I held a grudge for a good week until I finally forgave her.
A month ago someone tried to derail my project at work by fudging data. I was angry at him for days before I finally forgave him.
Ten years ago today, a group of terrorists killed thousands of innocent people here in the United States. Even though I was not physically affected, there is still anger in my heart, and I'm not quite sure I have completely forgiven them to this day.
But two thousand years ago, a loving, innocent, Holy man by the name of Jesus was hunted, beaten, mocked, embarrassed in front of his loved ones, nailed to pieces of wood and left to die.
And he forgave them while it was happening ....
God Bless you, and prayers for those souls and families affected by the horrible events of 9/11.
How long does it take you to read one of my posts?
Two minutes, perhaps?
Today, I'm going to give you back a minute and a half of your time in exchange for a favor.
Don't worry - it's really quite easy.
You see, this Holy Week, many people are going to make their semi-annual appearance at Church. There will also be many others that show up, as they do weekly, but just go through the motions - unmoved by the miracle of our Mass.
So instead of reading another 90 seconds of me reflecting, I'm asking you to use that time to say a prayer that the Holy Spirit enlightens these people, and strengthens them to "restart" their spiritual lives this Easter season.
Even if our combined prayers help just one soul, this will be the best 90 seconds we spend together all year.
Thank you in advance, and God Bless you.
Some sad news in the blog world this week. Michael Dubruiel passed away on Tuesday. (read here at OSV)
I have to admit I did not know Michael, nor did I read any of his books (but I will now). However, I just read the last article he wrote (posted by his wife at Charlotte was Both) It was very moving - please do yourself a favor and read it.
OSV has posted how you can help the family if you are interested.
And please pray for his soul and for his family.
God Bless.
I read an article from Pew Research the other day that saddened my soul.
