". . . The Catholic approach to the end times is different from that in certain (but not all) Protestant circles, especially the Evangelicals, who have a strong and often vivid preoccupation with signs of the Second Coming of Christ. Many of the notions that are expressed there are either erroneous or extreme. Some of these notions are rooted in a misunderstanding of the various genres of Scripture; others are caused by reading certain Scriptures in isolation from the wider context of the whole of Scripture; and some are rooted in reading one text while disregarding others that balance it.
"The Catholic approach to eschatology is perhaps less thrilling and provocative. It does not generate movie series like 'Left Behind' or cause people to sell their houses and gather on hillsides waiting for the announced end. It is more methodical and seeks to balance a lot of notions that often hold certain truths in tension with one another. . . .
"While we cannot know the exact time of His coming, there are things that both remind us of and signal His approach - if we have eyes to see them. These signs give indications only. The presence of such texts cannot be seen to overrule that He will come 'on a sudden' and that many will be caught unawares."
In a recent commentary, Monsignor Charles Pope (pastor of Holy Comforter-Saint Cyprian Parish,
Washington, DC) reflected on the Catholic view of the end times and on the need for, on our part, "humility, prayerful vigilance, readiness through obedience and the gift of holiness, along with an eager, longing heart for the Kingdom in all its glory."
To access Msgr. Pope's complete post, please visit:
Community in Mission: Essential Catholic Teachings on the End Times (22 AUG 16)
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