is symbolized by the darkening of the sun, moon and stars.
In such critical times in the past God has always raised up illustrious saints and religious orders to awaken the zeal and strengthen the faith of His people. He will most assuredly do likewise in the future for He said: "Behold, I am with you all days even to the consummation of the world. " [1] Many a time our Lord seems to sleep as the bark of His Church is beaten by the storm-tossed sea. In His own good time He arises to command the waves: Peace be still. [2]
The prophecies of this chapter have been fulfilled many times in the past. No doubt they will often be verified in the future. It should be noted, however, that a progressive accumulation of evils is predicted. At first it affects individuals only (v. 7). Then a nation or an entire church is involved (v. 8), and a number of great heretics fall away from the Faith (v. 10). Finally the whole Church suffers from a weakening of Faith and discipline (v. 12). This gradual progression of evil, this "mystery of iniquity" which was working even in the days of St. Paul, [3] will finally usher in the Antichrist.
13. An eagle appears in mid-heaven proclaiming three great woes to follow the sounding of the remaining trumpets. Two interpretations are permissible. The first recognizes in the eagle a powerful nation which shall
