"The antichrist is on his way.

RC, Gaillimh, Éire"

How very sexist to assume the antichrist will be male.

Eleanor Hipperson, Salisbury, Wilts

A green antichrist, why not? It is pretty obvious that the appeal of this person will be broad and he will seduce many, no doubt by unconventional means. Save the environment....How could that hurt anyone?

Fortunately with Christ in our hearts there will be no harmful effect on the true Church of believers, whether the antichrist to come is green or whatever else he may be.

Alan Klein, Wichita, Kansas USA

I think Babylon the great whore is 'Liberty'. Born in Babylon by Cyrus the great and bought to her feet in America by the French. The seven heads representative of emotions and 10 horns representative of the commandments.
I believe in much of what the bible says but I disagree with many of the interpretations mankind has labelled it with.
'Abuse' is the worse beast and I believe abuse of Liberty is up there with the worst abused of them all.

Just a thought from

Logisticmoquito.

cheryl, ISA, Auatralia

The antichrist is on his way.

RC, Gaillimh, Éire

What did the first pope preach in the book of Acts 2? In Acts 2 the first pope preached the Old Testament prophecies about Jesus and the death, burial and resurrection which hadn't been written down. Acts 2:21-24 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved. Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it. The 3000 that were saved (Acts 2:21) had gladness and singleness of heart because of IICorinthians 5:17 which hadn't been written yet. Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. 3000 saved without the NT or Catholic church. Another 5000 saved in Acts 4 with the same message, the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Dave Flang, Groton, USA NY

Catholics don't pray to statues

John Roberts, Toronto, Canada

There are dark times ahead at the end of the Christian age. Many will abandon the faith and lead the Church almost to extinction, only to be saved at the last moment by the return of Christ. Thus, the Church will "follow her Lord in death and Resurrection." It will be a time of Great Tribulation. In this time, the final villain of world history, the antichrist, will emerge. The antichrist, according to Catholic tradition, is both a man and a MOVEMENT. This calls for wisdom. If God is for the Church, which I truly believe it is, then anyone calling for women priests, changes of stance on abortion, calling for laws that prohibit the faithful from teaching their children about God until at least age 5, as we are supposedly torturing our children by telling them that they will go to hell for being bad, anyone who says that religion is the cause of all the world's suffering, anyone who calls our Holy Father the anichrist, is the antichrist. Be strong, brothers. The hour is upon us.

Donovan, Niagara Falls, Canada

Sorry but the word Pope if you do the research and study the history=Father in old latin...none of the Apostles Simon Peter included would ever be called Pope nor would they do "hail Marys" or pray to statues or other abominations of your "Roman Catholic" teachings..as to the Bible it is no where near complete especially not the abridged abbreviated New Testament mostly of someone named Saul/Paul(not an Apostle).The Whore of Babylon=ROME and yes I too am an...ecological, ecumenical (not a pacifist sorry) Christian and would love to revive the True Faith

Tim Murphy, Camrose, Alberta Canada

As a lowly Baptist my opinion probably makes no difference but Cardinal Biffi makes sense to me, and my interpretations of the scriptures. May God Bless him and the Pope.

sidney williams md, Stillwater, Oklahoma

On the topic of antichrist, the Bible is the only authority of what or who that may be. John, the accredited author of Revelation, describes the characteristics of the antichrist very clearly. One very deliberate description is that the antichrist puts it's self in the place of the' one and only true Christ.' There is also the evidence that this ' against Christ ' is not something that just pops up out of no where, in fact it ( the anti christ) was doing very well during the time that John wrote the the infamous description of this false christ. These are just two of many. So don't be fooled or mislead by speculation.
Luther did point to the false authority of the Papacy, and the Pope of the time. But he was not the first to point in this direction nor will he be the last.
If you want to know the truth go to source. After all the book of Revelation ( as all the Bible) was inspired by God and to be used for knowledge and correction. 2 Timothy 3: 1 There is only one authority.

Sam Maggie, Regina, Canada

Praise be Christ Jesus! May the Lord bless the current successor of St. Peter!

Charles Morris, Athens, Georgia

In the same sense that a belief in Jesus is so easy and that the consequences of not believing in Him are so dire(ie. Hell); there is also some evidence for the support of God and no evidence discounting Him. In that same light, there is some evidence supporting Global Warming and no evidence refuting it. Also, the consequences of us not doing the simple things like recycling and having a smaller vehicle, purchasing green products, etc. are so dire that it would be ludicrous for us not to do it.

Travis Miller, Long Beach, Ca

Those that "support our troops" very often have no connection to the armed forces i.e., they would not dream of sending their sons or daughters to serve in the military!!!
Our son just returned from combat in Afghanistan and I served in the US Army for twenty-one years. The "Anti-Christ" is not a Muslim but our own obsession with greed and materialism. Those that warn us of global warming and work for peace should be supported and reminded that these are a reflection of true Christian values not apocalyptic warmongering!!!!!!!!!

Thomas, Katonah, New York

I think that the catholic people need to all just go to a penecostal church one time in their life. They need to find out what's real and what's not. I don't care what anyone says when you feel the holy ghost theres nothing like it, and you will know its real. On the issue of the anti-christ there is going to be one and when that time comes it will be, but no one knows the time or the hour. So until then everyone should just worship our saviour Jesus Christ.

Mel, Manchester, US/KY

I believe the new religion of "environMENTALism" is just Wicca reinventing itself.

Mrs. DJ, Harlingen, Texas

If you enjoy a good mystery, google the "COAT OF ARMS" for Prince William of Great Britain. You will see the head of a lion, the feet of a bear, the body of a leopard, etc... and a GREAT RED DRAGON, and lots of head and crowns....

Coincidence???

He was born on the summer solstice, June 21st.
He is the spawn of Saxe-Coburg line and the Stuart clan both of which go ALL THE WAY BACK TO MEROVINGIANS.

Maybe, maybe not.

chuck, Dallas,

I am of firm conviction that the anti-christ is alive and well. And if we examine all aspects of the end times, it would appear as though we are in it. As a protestant, I believe that the anti-christ is one who will dupe the masses and make them believe that he is god. There is a person who is slowly pursuading millions of muslims, the religion that is growing in popularity thanks to political correctness. They have there own beliefs about the end times and have tried to usher their end time since the Iranian President took power. Do some research, Al-Sadr has a huge following. And with the watering down of religion world-wide and the acceptance of Europe and the US of terrorist Islam, it is only a matter of time until the terrorists take over where you are reading this. Wherever you are today reading this, pray for revival in your country. HIstory revisionists will one day call President Bush a HERO. God bless the troops. God bless Israel.

Chris, huntersville, nc

scripture concerning the end times and the antichrist have been so twisted in the past 100 years. people need to go back to scripture and pay attention to what it says. i recommend steve wholbergs "antichrist chronicles" book and 6hr dvd series. its a real eye opener and will definately show why the antichrist wont be "green".....

wayne, putnam,ct,

Actually if you count the 7 hills of Rome...the Whore of Babylon=ROME,and a Christian would in all conscience be green loving and anti-Roman Catholicism.

Brother Tim M Murphy, Camrose, Alberta/Canada

Bad experiences, there are, Danny, of course. Yet, you'll never find anything to compare with the redemption offered by Our Lord.

Father Bryan Storey, Tintagel, uk

weird that Iran President said he is the prophet to this 12nd Mahdi who will set fight infidels and set them free.

Mark , Milan, Italy

To have an Antichrist you would have to have a Christ in the first place.

Since there never was a Christ there’s nothing to worry about so go back to sleep.

The opinions of an organisation of allegedly celibate old men are irrelevant to any debate. The sooner the better the world wakes up to this fact the better.

Paddy Doherty, Dublin, Ireland

You can't have an antichrist since there was never a christ in the first place. The Catholic church is a cancer for which a complete cure is in the making. It’s long past the time when anyone should be listening to an insidious gang of allegedly celibate old men. Soon the pope’s gang will be telling kids that environmentalists have horns and cloven hoofs and eat babies during midnight ceremonies.

Paddy Doherty, Dublin, Ireland

Values such as love of peace and respect for nature are "obstacles in the way of salvation?"

The Christ spoke of loving thine enemy and turning the other cheek. Also remember the first commandments GoD gave Adam and Eve to "replenish the earth."

If that's the AntiChrist, sign me up.

I suppose this shouldn't come as a surprise seeing the present Pope was a former Hitler youth. Satan get thee away from me.

Splash, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

Father Bryan, you're right when you suggest that it's nonsense that the Catholic Church is CONSCIOUSLY spreading hatred, as long as you're speaking about the Church on the level of the individual Parish. I have met and have learned from many wonderful, devout, and truly holy men through my local church. But if you're suggesting that the leadership of the Catholic Church-yes, the boys in Rome- doesn't know what they're doing, with their embarrassing embrace of positions that essentially condone hatred of women, gays, Muslims, and others, then I believe that you're simply not paying attention.

The Gospel does preach the wonderful attributes of Love. Unfortunately, the Catholic Church has decided that there are only a relative few that are deserving of this Love that Christ himself said should be spread to all.

Hey, any organization that could produce my High School Religion teachers MUST be look on with a very serious level of skepticism.

Danny H, Geneva, NY, USA

Christ came and the Jews did not know who He was. Now Catholics and, perhaps, other Christians are actually looking for the Antichrist? Christianity is not some mystical religion, people! He'll come in and suttle manner in my opinion. Hey, let's call Al Gore the Antchrist!

Tori, Alexandria, LA

If your greatest enemy and threat is someone who endorses wise and responsible stewardship of our natural resources, less costly and destructive alternatives to war for resolving international conflict, and mutual respect and understanding amongst the various faith traditions around the world, then perhaps it is time to rethink your beliefs.

Shannon Thomas, Manhattan Beach, California

Biblical teachings concerning the Antichrist should be taught in the light of "all scripture is in fallible". Those who name or predict a time of the Antichrist, do so at their own peril. Biblical teaching is "no one knows the time or the hour", and there are certain very specific conditions that must take place first. People who look at world events today could come to the conclusion that the time of the Antichrist is imminent. As in previous generations of the church, we are told to live our llives as though the Apocolypse could be at any moment. Many people are predicting who the Antichrist is and when he will be on the world stage. Fundamentalist theology is clear that we are to live our lives daily according to the teachings of Jesus Christ, and be looking for signs of the end time, without fear because we have been told to expect them

Bo D, Diamond Bar, CA

Evolution is not a science. Adam and Eve rode dinosaurs to church on Sunday, and the Earth is 6000 years old, everyone knows this. This is what happens when you stare at corn and winter wheat all your life.

Mikey, topeka, KS

I wonder what Father/former Congressman Bob Drinan would have to say about this foolish statement....The good Cardinal needs to go back and read the scriptures.

In short, he needs to be ignored. We Catholics have had a lot of practice ignoring the many clerical fools who try to speak for the Church.

Spartan Bill, Lansing, Michigan

"Evolution has gaping holes in it." Gaping, huh? Compared to walking on water, virgin birth and resurrection from death, evolution is airtight. Religion is basically political, and the church today IS Caesar, as far removed from the reality of Jesus as can be. The original rebel Jesus today would BE a green pacifist, and I think the church would persecute him just like Rome did, because each institution respresents the Establishment of its day.

Brian H., Manchester, NH, USA

Green Antichrist? Where does one apply? Sounds like a good gig. Save the planet, annoy right-wingers, and stop the march of bloody ignorance. Most of us aren't Catholic.

It's stuff like this that makes that Church a joke. John Paul II said man had to become reconciled to Creation. This is obviously an excuse not to.

E. I. Troll, London,

'Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's and unto God the things that are God's" Mathew 22:21, Mark 12:17
Alfred North Whitehead from Process and Reality page 342,
"When the western world accepted Christianity Caesar conquered.......The Church gave unto God the attributes what belonged exclusively to Caesar." And, it might be added, gave unto Caesar what belonged exclusively to God.
So, who pray, was/is/has been the anti-Christ since the Edict of Milan in AD 313 when Constantine 1 established the toleration of Christianity? Since, I suggest, the first state recognised Pope Miltiades (311-14). Perhaps the ultimate abrogation of God is the claim of Papal Infallibility in in1854.

John Dean, Perth, Western Australia

It is nonsense to accuse our Catholic church of consciously spreading hatred in the Universe. All Christian teaching in the Gospel promotes the glue of love, leaving aside the misleading illusions.

Father Bryan Storey , Tintagel, UK

I've often wondered about the actual method that God used to impregnate the Virgin Mary. For instance; If he utilized her egg, did he have to wait for her to ovulate, or did he miraculously create a unique egg. He does not tell us about DNA in the Bible but we must assume that he created it because it is natural fact. So, was it Mary's DNA or God's. If it was her egg, did he fertilize her in vitro or did he remove her egg and do it in a petri dish. If in vitro, did he enter it through her abdominal wall thus avoiding her vagina? Did God miraculously create sperm with a special gene unique to himself? How did God acquire this sperm? Does God have testicles? After all, we are created in his image and we do. Since he had only one Son, has he only produced one single sperm through all the infinity of His existence? Does he have specific sperm and egg selected for the Second Coming. Will the next Divine Virgin reside in a developed country with access to good prenatal care?

Marty Kay Zee, Pasadena, CA, USA

Evolution I'm not sure what relation that has to the The Antichrist how ever I must say that the interest in evolution and support of the idea seems to be the most strongly held by people that also support social programs to help all.
Which seems to be at odds with at least the spirit of evolution if not the idea.

james johnson, waukesha, wisconsin,USA

Darwinism evolution is not a proven theory nor is it the definiton of science. Evolution has gaping holes in it and it can be intelligently debated without labeling those who don't buy into it as anti-science. I'm not Chatholic but it seems funny that we want to call christians all these horrible things but is socialist and unbelievers in the 20th century that have been responsible for more carnage than you could ever attach to christian(Hitler, Stalin etc.).

Joe Brazzle, Paxico, Kansas

I suppose this means that Christ's second appearance will be in the form of a polluting war-monger.
I say a religion loses all its value if it fails to instill good values in its followers.

Pranav Krishnan, Naperville,

I always find it extremely interesting who it is continually referring to people with whom they do not agree as simple or small-minded. It is the mark of a simpleton to accept that which he has been fed without critical analysis. Macro-evolution is not science. The inability ot those who hold to their (admittedly) popular beliefs to confront the very question whether or not the answers they divine from bones and circular reasoning is what is truly appalling. One can easily be concerned about the human cancer up and until the solution concerns that particular human. Let's all investigate with an open mind before we impune the motives of others.

Brian Carroll, Buckeye, Arizona

Barbara from Waterbury illustrates exactly what's wrong with people these days. Evolution is a scientific theory which is 150+ years old and that theory has been tested continually for those 150+ years from small-minded people like her. So far the evolution theory has held its own and the narrow-minded people like her ignore scientific proof. Wake up, Barbara and open your mind. It's pitiful you even own a computer with net access....science is behind all that too...why not reject it all? Hypocrite.

Buckeye, Columbus, OH, USA

You just can't make this stuff up!

James Leal, San Francisco, CA

Sure he sounds crazy but we'd better pay attention. The human cancer that is killing the earth is consciously supported by the Catholic Church. They cause unimaginable misery every day with their birth control policies in the third world

It also shows the governments (UK) to by hypocritical. The Catholic Church is allowed to engage in the kind of anti-gay, anti-semetic, anti-muslim, anti-feminine talk that is routinely punished when others do it.

Haroon Jahed, Leeds (Kent), UK

Wow, no proof of evolution? Have you read the literature? Far greater proof for the nature of biological reality than there is for the socalled events of the new testament. Religion has faith and it is powerful. It can cause the stupid to reject actual data. Witness the commentary here.

Tim Osburn, Urbana, IL

Wouldn't it be nice if you actually published the Cardinal's text so that we could all read and understand it, rather than snipping out a few words here and there which are unlikely to convey any real sense of what the man said? Or would that be in danger of spoiling a good story with the facts?

Desmond Persaud, Wimbledon, London, UK

An ironic news article in light of the Biblical profile of the Roman Papacy shown with jolting clarity @ www.Heisnear.com . (ie. "Here is Wisdom" makes even the staunchest skeptic think twice.)

Patmos M., Gallatin Park,

Who are we to think that we can save this wonderful world God has given us? Somehow it had managed to exist for millions of years and there is no one man or woman anywhere on this earth today that can "save" it. In God's time it will be over, not ours. Think about all the people who claim to want to save our beautiful world! They live in mansions, own more than one SUV, fly their own private airplanes. Do you think maybe, just maybe, their motives might not be pure? I for one will stick with God! God is good. The rest of us have feet of clay.

Barb, Munson,

It's odd how all the people that seem to think that 'religion' is for the naive and the easily-led have gobbled down the theories, and they are just theories, about global warming and evolution as if they are dogma. What proof do any of these intellectuals have for these theories? Large numbers of scientists reject these ideas, but they are silenced by the green inquisition. Try truly being open-minded for a change and do a little reading and research - you might be surprised at what you find. The news media isn't an infallible guide, nor are pop icons and billionaire businessmen. We all have a religion of some sort, but some of us are honest enough to acknowledge the label and others pretend that they're 'scientific'.

Barbara, Waterbury,

Oh, for Pete's sake, who's paying any real attention to this doddering old nincompoop? There will always be those out there who do things that hold religion up to ridicule in the name of some misguided orthodoxy.
As a Catholic I've come to realize that much of what was mystical in my childhood is mere science that was eventually explained at University. In adulthood I've come to worry much less about God's hand in human affairs than human hands in our affairs.
I don't take this as some reason to hate all religion. It's just another example of the varied tapestry that we use to figure out our existance (although this particular fellow may be one of the slipped stitches)
pax vobiscum

Michael J. Moore, Vienna, IL, USA

Surely one of the joys of being alive is to continually learn, and question the world around you. Religion is a way of saying 'there is no possible way I could understand how all this works and I'm not going to try'. There are reasons for the way things are. Just because we don't know what they all are yet doesn't mean we should be attributing everything to an invisible friend and his cast of comic-book characters.

Jocelyn Britton, Bournemouth,

If you wish to know the things of God then ask God , he has given us the way. Through prayer you can actually talk to the one you seem to be so confused about. God answers prayer.

Bill, Newport News,

I follow the Catholic faith, it was how my parents tried to bring me up.I love Jesus ,now I am older ,not because my parents tellme, I have made achoice.Other faiths are relevant too,we need to find our common ground be we catholic ,atheist , muslim ,or " just getting by "
There is definitly something happening in the world regarding ecological issues.Is this along term threat to the planet? It seems so.Perhaps this is what the cardinal is getting at.Maybe someone powerful may come along and we could be swept away by that person who will "save the world,"( sound familiar?) But there may be a cost.

Patsy, leicester, uk

If you read the Bible, you'll find that God created humans in His image. The same book does not indicate at all that God was religious, so we must assume He created us as atheists. So go read your Bible and become an atheist.

Trond, Oslo, Norway

No one will know who the antichrist will be I think. Why do I think this? cause at first I believe everyone in the world will believe he is a good man. But sooner or later after that some people start realizing that he has secrets and they doubt his goodness. Than when they seek the Lord they figure out who he really is.

In my opinoin if the Rapture happens before the tribulation, than everyone that's left will not be a christian. They all have to come find Jesus Christ as their Savior for themselves. And if they do, eventually they will see and understand who the real antichrist is.

If the rapture is after the tribulation, there will be alot of opinions and speculation as to who the antichrist would be. This is why i strongly believe the rapture will take places before the tribulation, but who am I to say what the Lord has in mind.

I'm just giving what I think MIGHT happen.

Aaron Neme, Sterling Heights, MI

Good God (!) we have enough trouble with the Bush Administation actively fighting any moves to improve our enviornment, while his base of Conservative Christians sit duped, blissfully gaa gaa, listening to preachers, who are found in bed with men and hookers, hoping that Christ will return, and therefor we can reduce
one of Gods work of art (the Earth) into a toilet/garbage dump...after all-Heaven is the real goal....why worry about the here and now?

Chris, Bellingham, WA USA

Well said, Zareen! We are trapped in an insane asylum and the inmates are in charge. Religion is a trap for the weak minded, who need to be told how to feel and think, i.e., given permission to promote hatred of other ways of being. If that is the way you want to live, that is your lookout, but don't push it down everyone else's throat and stop killing/maiming/damaging other people and the earth. Religious nutters should not be allowed to roam about and terrorize the rest of us.

Terri, bellingham, usa

In Bible School , My instructor taught us that Christians in WW2 labeled Hilter as the AntiChrist. Since the 69 , I have seen many say this the AntiChrist ( even the TV and the computer have had the title at one time) . The moral of the story is " be as wise as a serpent and innocent as a dove". Yes, study your Bible , news and media but like a carpenter once said measure twice and cut once. The AntiChrist will appear Godlike. Find the biblical measures of the antiChrist and measure twice before proclaiming anyone or anything that title.

Cathe Stark , Rhinebeck,

This is sheer, utter madness.
I completely agree with what Clair Nee said below (or above, as the case may be) - It's not April 1st and this is EXACTLY why I do not subsrcibe to religion.
Since when has the desire to save a world full of precious beauty, innocence and interdependence become a 'relative' value. Since when has this become seperate from the 'absolute' value of <i>love?

Zareen , Colchester, Essex, United Kingdom

I am relieved and grateful (alianain) that I am not of any faith but all faith (earthly) combined. You guys are so pitiful and sorryful...it doesn't take a human being to know there is A Presence of some kind on this planet to know there IS. That is why you keep & continue on brainstorming on the website about it, in the first place, and debating whether It actually is or not!!!

Doesn't that make you look silly...it does to me. I am so human and alone, just like you, man.

uvanga, Ottawa, Canada

Al Gore, iz that choo?

max, HK,

One of the anti christ prophecies says he will change the day of worship and claim to obsolve sins. The anti christ is the pope. Obviously they are afraid of a pacifist person of reasoning. Who will expose them for what they are. Personally i think the pope worships Satan or the light bearer. W/e they want to call him. Why does the Pope wear the hat of picses and the cross of baal? Why has the pope changed the day of worship designated by God himself from Saturday to sunday?

Didn't Jesus pray to God? yes! Then why do you call Jesus God and worship him as God? Why do you pray to the dead? Doesn't the bible tell you to oinly pray to God?

I will tell you what the Pope and his bishops are afraid of. The truth.. There lies will be exposed and there false religion will be cast aside.

Michael, Chicago, Il

If Jesus were alive today even he would call the Catholic Church the antichrist...the things that have been done in his name are the true sins. Jesus was a spiritual beacon, the church is a manipulative, controlling cult.

Joe, Fall River, Ma

Thank goodness that my Catholic Faith does not depend on obvious nut-cases like Cardinal Biffi! Bu he sure does get ones attention!

J. Peter Smith, Vero Beach, USA/Florida

Guys, say whatever you wanna say. But I strongly believe that the Catholic Church is God's Supreme court here on earth, and is being strengthened and by the Holy Spirit everyday. And as the Lord Jesus say, " whoever does noy gather with me (meaning, with his body--- The Chuch), scatters.. so please, esp Protestants, believe in the Church's teachings-- its for ur own good, really!

jaygal, Manila, Philippines

Only the "born again" can possibly understand the statements of the Cardinal or the prophecies of the russian philosopher. "Natural man cannot understand the things of God".

CB

C B, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

I quite believe in this concept of "born-again.."
christian etc.. it meaning the person has emerged
stronger in faith.The physical ritual of 'anionting'
is just that...but the crux is the mental& spiritual
consolidation and reaffirmation of the SPIRIT.vis-a-vis
material body..So when George W,claims that he is
're-born' I don't contest that at-all..OR is there something like 're-born' primie-spiritually baby in contrast to 're-born spiritaully-healthy.

RAAJ JOSHI, pune , india

Jesus was both reactionary and revolutionary, and His teachings allowed no room for compromise and relativism; post-modern society has clearly set itself against His fundamental teachings, and the church needs to return to His doctrine. I am an evangelical Protestant and do not often support what the Cathloic church says, but in this case I believe that Cardinal Biffi is absolutely correct.

Peter Sebborn, Hereford, England

I am allready seeing the shadows of the antichrist here. Those that argue "religion is poison" and the need for believers to be "locked up". The supposed lovers of peace and promoters of tollerance can tollerate anything but Christianity. Those that wish to eliminate religion follow in the ideological footsteps of the greatest murderers the planet has ever seen Mao, Stalin, Lenin, Pol Pot etc...

Marty, Chicago,

Surely in a world of uncertainty one must rely on wisdom and prayer in determinig such an issue as complex as who is or is not the anti-christ.

Michael Waite, san angelo, tx

I don't think the Cardinal was in any sense condemning "pacifism, ecology or humanism", but was rather saying that these great ideals are the fruits of the pursuit of moral goodness, rather than a substitute for it, i.e. if we succeed in pursuing the divine source of this goodness first, then pacifism, ecology and humanism will follow as a result.

Edmund Burke, Kingston upon Thames, England

"Once again, this article and the comments show how true the saying is, "Religion is poison.""

and how poisonous are those who seek to silence believers

joanne byler, edinburgh, uk

Yet more proof, if any were needed, that the church is full of very wierd and deluded inviduals who do not live in threreal world. In any other walk of life this man would be laughed out if town.

Stephen Thomas, London,

Cheers for Cardinal Biffi. This hard-line statement needed to be said. And it is true.
Since Vatican II, the Catholic Church has in large measure followed a type of Antichrist, the reforms of Vatican II. Ancient traditions were discarded, the Tridentine Latin Mass trashed and replaced with an ecumenical service which is more like Protestant than Catholic....in the process driving millions from the Mass.
What was chilling, at least to me in Cardinal Biffi's speech, was that His description of the Antichrist as one who was a "pacifist, radical ecumenist, and enviormentalist who millions would cheer and follow, and who would water down the Faith to accomodate everyone", reminds me very much of the actions and agenda of John Paul II.
The similarities are probably just a coincidence, but it is a similarity which is disturbing to say the least.

Kenjiro Shoda, Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, USA

Firstly I had to check that it was not April 1st, and secondly it illustrates perfectly why I do not subscribe to religion. What a shame that someone in a position of importance uses there position to produce a statement that is damaging to what lots of people (regardless of religion) are trying to do; and that is work towards a world that is better for us and generations to come.

Clair Nee, Worthing, West Sussex

..."the Vatican hierarchy has caused consternation by giving warning of an Antichrist who is “a pacifist, ecologist and ecumenist”...

Surely they are talking about arch No1 spoilt
middle-class unloved brat, (thou shalt love me,..or else ...Jesus Christ? )
He was a pacifist,..and used examples of nature to instruct us peasant non-jew scum to believe in him,...eg (behold the ant,...and all that cr*p)

He also wanted to unite everyone across the world.
Can it be the Vatican does not believe in Jesus?????

A Brown, london,

This has to be the funniest joke story of the centuary.

A Green "Anti-Christ"
The only jolly green giants I know are those that sell maize-corn for your salads

A Brown, london,

Steady on there, before we get carried away with Catholic-bashing and generally labelling each other as the Antichrist.

It seems to me that the paragraph which juxtaposes "absolute values" and "relative values" hints at the subtlety of the debate. These “absolute values” and “relative values” are not necessarily incompatible. Indeed, that may be so similar and compatible as to be difficult to distinguish. Cardinal Biffi seems mainly concerned with establishing the nature of the Christian experience and identifying its core.

We seem to live in the age of the sound-bite, when undue attention is given to snappy comments taken out of context, but frankly this is an issue that is difficult to treat adequately in a relatively short newspaper article with a (frankly) sensationalist headline.

Mark Anthony Mifsud, Msida, Malta

Pope and Vatican should stop following capitalism and its global politics. The way Islam will react to this cartel won’t be same as the way Russia did in the past. Therefore the Vatican can find itself in the position of Antichrist for Muslims (Dajjal) which might be end of everything we peace supporters are trying to do. Keep the world secular please....

CKOSE, Kocaeli, Turkey

"This made me chuckle, then I read the comments and it didn't seem funny anymore"

You can say that again. There are far more running around than ever get locked up.

John Lynch, Oswestry, England

It appears that we may have a fascist Cardinal who would have us run in terror from anyone who tries to save our planet; either from pollutants, or from warfare. Hmmm. Who's kidding who?

D Gudmundson, Saskatoon, Canada

Eternity is not a long time, it is no time.
Take a deep breath, set aside opinion for a moment, and simply be quiet. At the worst this is good for your health, at the best you will hear the undending voice that is God calling to you.
Good luck.

Angeleno, San Diego, CA

In olden times the Anti-Christ was anyone who didn't believe in Christ. Today it's anyone who doesn't believe in the Church and that should be anyone with any real sense of morality. It was this Church, after all, that turned its back on Liberation Theology in Latin-America and was therefore complicit in the brutal murders of hundreds of truly admirable people; People sorely missed to this day and far more deserving of praise than anyone in the Church hierarchy either back then or now. The Church is as corrupt now as its ever been, but there is no need for an avenging Anti-Christ, the Church will either collapse of its own accord, or humanity will.

Tony Somera, Urbana, Illinois

Please study science and dump the supernatural claptrap before we all go extinct. Thank you.

Ernesto, Cheshire,

Once again, this article and the comments show how true the saying is, "Religion is poison."

Tom Allen, Tilburg,

The Pope is not the antichrist. But remember, there are two beasts in the book of Revelation. One is the false prophet. He will be given power to perform signs, so that he will even make fire come down out of heaven. He will not hold to the traditions of the faith nor to the Word of God. The false prophet will be a spiritual leader whom many will follow. This is why some scriptural scholars believe the Pope will be the false prophet, and also because the church that he rules over sits on seven hills. The false prophet will make people worship the other beast (the antichrist) who is the governmental leader (the revived Holy Roman Empire). This is why some scriptural scholars believe that the antichrist will be the Secretary General of the United Nations in conjunction with the Fourth Reich. The false spiritual leader (false prophet) and the governmental leader (antichrist) will struggle for dominance until the false church is destroyed. At the famous Battle of Armageddon the Antichrist and the false prophet and anyone who follows them will be cast into the Lake of Fire. It's all in the Bible.

T. Rigdon, Alvarado, Texas

This made me chuckle, then I read the comments and it didn't seem funny anymore

J. Cheval, nottingham,

Wasn't so long ago that the Antichrist was Russia, the European Union (and earlier Common Market), World Council of Churches, and Islam, to mention a few leading candidates touted by fundamentalist Christians. The author of the Bible's book of Revelation, writing around 95 AD, saw the Antichrist appearing in the Roman Empire and Emperor. He warned his Christian readers not to be duped by Rome's glamor, power, and fradulant claims to divinity (the Emperor's favorite title was "Lord and God.") "Anti-Christ" since designates any political power that sets itself up as worthy of worship and seduces its citizens to accord it divine authority. There have been plenty of examples in history. Not only ancient Rome, and Nazi Germany, but also "God Bless America" propaganda, belief and ritual are examples of how Antichrist appears--the latter being one that, ironically, many Antichrist-wary Christians today fall for.

Philip , Chongqing, China

The only 2 books in the bible (any bible) that mentions "Antichrist" are the books of 1st and 2nd John. 1John 2:18 clearly shows that antichrist not only was coming, but was ALREADY in existance, at the time John wrote these two books! Doesn't anyone read any more? The very wording and context show that "many" will indicate a group of like minded individuals, not necessarily working in unison, yet with the same or similar approach to the teachings of Christ, that is "AGAINST" Christ, (IE; anti- anything). For nearly 2000 years Christendom has been anything but "For" Christ. History acts as her judge. The clergy of christendom as a group could have done no greater harm to the name of Jesus, than they have done. As her waters dry up (her protectors) her doom is assured. This long lived and still manifest "Antichrist" is not that of novels and movies, but that of mere men seeking worship as Gods in your local churches, watering down "Gods" word thier titles and conduct. Read PLEASE.

Loren, mesa, arizona

Theres no doubt what the antichrist is up to including promoting pagan new age relgions such as enviromentalism and earth worship they have for years promoted the new age relgion of such as the aztecs,incas,myans and many native american new age relgion promted by these new age radicals and AL GORE as well as JAMES LOVELOCK and others have been promoting new age beliefs such as GAIA and no dobt human sacrifice which was what was used by the for mentioned pagan religions its no doubpt that they are the ones promoting this on many collage campuses and to school kids why else did TED TURNER promote this on his progame CAPTIAN PLANET and many main-stream churches are promoting this new age pagan ideas claiming this GAIA HYPOTHISIS moning many of their radical beliefs and its time these chuches wised up and prohibited this pagan promotion which is leading many into ecspting the idea of a earth mother(GAIA)WHICH WAS practiced by many primative pagan people its time to reject this new age ideas

Dick Short, Etna,, USA, CALIFORNIA

It makes sense. Man is worshiping the creation, not the creator. There is a perpetual false propaganda that is lulling the collective conscious of those "with itchy ears" to believe in the big lie. Then they will fofeit their rights in order to get rid of their guilt.. Once every one is under the control of this global anti-christ then the exterminations will commence. Check out how many times "remnant" is mentioned in the bible.

Chris, Buford, GA

I personally believe we are living in the last days. The prophecies in Ezekial, Daniel, and Revelation all read like current events now. Ezekial 38-39 speak of Iran (Persia) pulling Russia (Gog), as if by a hook into a move against Israel that will trigger a regional conflict. By God's grace Isreal will survive, but the Antichrist will not long follow trying to bring reason to the world. The prophecies of Saint Malachi are also intriguing, if extra-biblical. He predicted 1000 years ago the succession of Pope's and by his record after Benedict there will be only one more before Christ returns. Interesting days we live in! I encourage people to open a Bible, read the Gospel of John and get to know Jesus. It isn't about religion and rules. But rather a relationship with a God who truly loves, and forgives. He changed my life, he will change yours. God Bless!

Bob , Topeka, Kansas

Marc, Amen bro I could not say it better myself. Everthing written in the Word of God is coming to pass and most of the world is asleep on the matter. Too bad because Eternity is a long, long, long, time. May everyone come to know Him!!!!!!!

dannykaz, Irvine, CA

The Pope is not the antichrist he will be the false prophet a religious leader
which he causes all rich and poor free and slave receive the mark . The antichrist will be the president of the world, the president of the United Nations

J.miller, phx, Az

I too believe that the stage is being set for the entrance of the anti-christ. Let's see, just this week there was an article about proposed legislation to make any anti homosexual comments or discussion a" hate crime." And every day we have this global warming crock shoved down our throats. Yes I say crock because that is exactly what it is. For a human being to be arrogant enough to think that a human being can control nature is scary. This is absolutely ridiculous and corrupt and a front to gain power over people. The bible says that absolute power corrupts. I don' even like to read the news on the web or listen to talk radio anymore because all this news is so frightening. However, God is in control, despite how things may appear, and that is our only comfort.
It is interesting how defensive the non believers get about things like being as sexually promiscuous as they please, or defending homosexuality or global warming. You don't have to preach to me, just examine yourself.
Tami

Tamara, Msvl, USA

foolish people...don't you know that satans' greatest enemy is the "throne of Peter"....the walls shall crack, but the foundation shall never crumble...remember your catechism from ages past...there are three eras in the church...the church militant, the church sorrowful and the church truimphant. Don't be part of the great deception! (the attacks on her authority)

linda , orlando,

The AntiChrist will be none other than Satan himself, disguised as Christ and the whole world will follow after him--because most of the Christian teaching is that there will be a rapture--there will be no rapture, for the true Christ is coming here.

The word anti in Greek--means instead of--so Satan will come first in stead of Christ and will fool the world

Wanda, Poteau, OK

Technically, the word antichrist appears in the Bible 4 times and never in reference to the end times. antichrist is anybody who denies Christ.

1 1 John 2:18
2 1 John 2:22
3 1 John 4:3
4 2 John 1:7

Lets see what Jesus revealed to Paul in the book of Revelations.

Rev 12:9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.

Jeff, Torrington, CT USA

Quoting a "Russian philosopher and mystic", can quoting Nostradamus be far behind? C'mon guys, get real!

Scott, Redondo Beach, California

If your still here when The Antichrist comes ,run for the hills ,like Jesus said .........and you'd better pray that you won't be. If you have Jesus, you won't be.

Riannon, Menifee,

I think the cardinal is right, the anti-christ will take over the first 3 1/2 years of the tribulation (a 7 year peroid described in the book of Daniel) with peace. Half way though the tribulation, he will show his true santanic colors, when he will make hitler look like a boyscout. Accept Jesus as your Saviour and Lord before its too late, and avoid the tribulation.

RickDC, Moodus, USA. CT

You non-christians are entitled to your beliefs. But the venomous criticizm of the followers of Jesus is a testement to your own narrow mindedness. May God have mercy on your souls...

ICE(, Charlotte, USA NC

Personally, I think Bono could very well be the Anti-Christ.

Bill Donohue, Richmond, United States

In response to Elenor from London, England who feels that it's the Church’s views on contraception that is causing the destruction of whole countries by HIV. It is the citizens of those countries that continue to have unprotected sex while knowing the consequences. The Churches stance is do not have sex out of wedlock. If these citizens can restrain their primal urges and perhaps take the Churches advice they simply would not catch HIV...it really is that simple

Montana, Jackson, NJ

All this 'antichrist' talk reminds me of the Monty Python sketch 'spot the looney'...
In my opinion, (as a former catholic turned neopagan), If Benedict wants to stem the 'tsunami' of catholics / other christians who'er 'voting w/ their feet', (leaving christianity forever), he needs to accept 'condoms to fight hiv.aid's', gay civil rights, fighting climate instability, Bush's, Blair's & Bin.Ladin's War Crimes & many other contemporary issues...
BTW: It wouldn't hurt if Bishop Marcinkus & Cardinal Law, (among others), were turned over to civil authorities for 'life w/o possibility of parole' sentences, (for {allegedly} 'enron like' business frauds & 'protection of child molesters', respectively).

R.G. Frano, A.C.L.S., Jersey City, NJ, USA

"arch-conservative"? How is that a reasonable way to open a supposedly serious article?

"Beastly beliefs"? How much clearer would you like your double entendre?

Can we go back to the time when editors edited articles for reasonable writing please?

Mr Wontbepublished, Wontbepublishedton,

Despite the title, Nietzsche's "Anti-Christ" is more anti-Christian than anti-Christ. There was one true Christian, Nietzsche said, and he died on the cross. Everything since then hasn't been "good news" but "bad news." Nietzsche was far from admiring the figure of Jesus, but he clearly was in awe of him (his prose drifts into a sort of ecstasy when the subject of Jesus is addressed) and saw the way of life represented Christ as something that people could aspire to, even today.

gary panetta , peoria , united states

Goodness, Truth and Beauty are absolutes because
only God is eternal goodness, truth and beauty. Thus God
Himself is the standard. If our countries no longer
accept God as our goodness, truth and beauty to imitate,
then who will we imitate? If not truth, a lie. If not
the Creator, then the creature. If not the Christ, the anti-Christ.

Anthony, Cincinnati, Oh

Eleanor's comment " If Christ is supposed to be the savior of humanity, the Antichrist is surely the Vatican and Pope with their devastating views and teachings on things such as contraception when entire countries are being destroyed by HIV and over-population" shows how those who hate the Church and organized relligion in particular are always quick to blame the Church. Perhaps if more people did listen to the teachibngs of the Church you would not have a problem with AIDS but people don't want rules for their behavior let alone personal accountability and responsibility. Being able to rule one's life is what being God means to them. That is the greatest sin of all.

Rita , Nashville, Tennessee - United States

Oh - and by the way - those countries who veer towards an abstinance programme (US and until recently UK) have extremely high levels of teenage pregnancies - fact - and sexual diseases - fact. Put your trust in these interpreters of an ancient book...

Plot Tracer, Glasgow, Scotland

What are liberals for? High taxes, no religion, no private property, keeping people in government slums by keeping them victims, food police, thought police, abortion at any time for any reason, sexual promiscuity, sex with children, no right to self defense, no rights at all for that matter unless you completly agree with them!

I could go on and on however, it cracks me up when you put down those of us who believe in a higher power and see the evil around us. What liberals fail to realize is that evil comes in many forms and a lot of it is right at the door step of liberalism. So keep talking; I for one refuse to go down with the liberal ship!!!!!

Lisa, Warrenton, Virginia

It's obvious! It's Al Gore!!!

Carol, Ridgefield, CT

Yes, now I understand...
All cardinals are equal but some are more equal than others...
Peace is War.
Love is Hate..
Chritian values are anti-Chritian values...
Seems clear to me and oh bye the way what year is it?

John Rinaldo, Long Beach, California

Father Storey,

first of all condoms are put on a person, not a person on a condom. Of course abstinence is going to be better at preventing Aids, but even many of the Catholic priesthood find it impossible to adhere to and some can't even manage to avoid overly friendly behaviour with children so it is a bit rich for them to be expecting people with less incentive to keep 'holy' to manage abstinence.
I keep to the maxim 'God helps those who help themselves' and being anti-condoms is short sighted and muddle headed. I am certain that if Jesus were around today he would be going out amongst prostitutes and making sure they had plenty of condoms himself. I also think he would be a 'green' advocate and probably a bit upset at the Catholic church in the same way as he was a bit fed up with the Jewish one when he was first on the planet, and for most of the same reasons.

michele, Wales,

visit here, everything is explained in great detail--a pope will not be the anti-Christ:

http://www.endtime.com/

http://www.endtime.com/pdf/magazine/current_sample.pdf

PJ, Savannah,

You'll know the Antichrist when you see him step forward.

You've been told he will perform what seem to be miracles, and decieve the nations. He will call himself god.

In the mean time get back to talking with God (Christ), be good to your family, work hard, be humble and remember to enjoy life for it's positive moments.

And if you feel up to it, witness about Christ.

If you think Christians are talking about something that's just a belief, open your eyes and see the rewards God gives to those who respect and obey him.

Tom, Sydney, Australia

More proof that that we all need to move into the 21st century, get real and consign superstition to the dustbin of history.

tony dummelow, birmingham,

I believe Eleanor shouldn't be attacked in such a harsh way. I thought the bible commands that we love each other... and that others will know we are Christians by out LOVE.

Elanor I see your point, I was once in that place of thinking too... And you have a great point in your first couple of sentences. here is the BEST way I can explain it. Everything about GOD is Good but not everything good is about God. God is our creator or artist and we are his masterpiece. He loves us sooo much. Think about how proud a little child is of their first finger painting or first play dough pizza, to them, it's perfect. now if someone comes in an messes it up or steals it they are CRUSHED, just devastated, they will do anything to give it back even stand in between the artwork and the destroyer. God Came to earth in a human form to stand in the gap for us so the destroyer "Satan" couldn't mess us up. but if we refuse that protection where does that leave us? want more info 1-800-need-him...

Bryant, Independence, Missouri / USA

The anti-christ will be consumed with Satans nature and a homosexual. Satan nature is hatred, envey, vanity, greed, deciet, lust which includes the unnatural lust of sodomy.
The culture of death results from Satans nature. This is the spirit of anti-christ.
The culture of life reflects Gods nature. This nature is based on the love of God and the love of neighbor. This is the spirit of the law given by God to Moses. All other laws are legislated by man and becomes the letter of the law.
The LETTER of the law is good unless it contridicts the SPIRIT of the law. If the letter of the law contridicts the spirit of the law then it is unjust and non-binding on any moral or just man.
The apostle Paul stated that the anti-christ would be the lawless one.

Wayne Howard, Liberty, usa missouri

It is amazing to see the venom with which relativists attack religion. Me thinks they do protest too much......

John, Wishaw, Scotland

PJ, people have been saying that same thing about he Church for 2000 years and you know what? Most of them are gone and the Church is still here in much the same form it was in first century A.D. The Church has been through far greater battles than the battle against contraceptive practices (which, BTW, also seem to precede increases in divorce and legalized abortion, go figure!)

Judith M., Brainerd, USA

Sounds to me as though the Cardinal has some good thoughts/ideas. The importance of, one could say sine qua non character of, a personal encounter with Jesus Christ is something about which orthodox Catholics, Orthodox, and Protestant can agree.
Condoms are not going to cause every child to be a wanted and loved child. In fact, quite the opposite has turned out to be the case. One need only consider the demographics of the USA to see such is the case. Since the legalization of birth control in 1962 the number of abortions has risen as has the number of out-of-wedlock births, to the point where in Philadelphia I understand something like 50%+ of newborns are born without any legal father. Such is the case not because of the unavailability of condoms, but because of the cultural climate that condoms help bring about.

jhcn, Souderton, PA USA

So what's the betting? Is it David Cameron, Anita Roddick or Al Gore? My parents are fairly pacifist AND they have just bought a compost bin, so I shall certainly be keeping an eye on them after Cardinal Biffi's revelation.

William Ross, Sunderland, County Durham

I believe that Hillary Clinton could be the antichrist, along with a few others. I think the Pope will not be him, even though there are scriptures that point to him, i.e. seven hills, etc. On the web site >ebacprophecy.com< it has an antichrist list that is fairly logical. The last Pope had problems, but this new Pope seems to be getting back to the Christian roots.

Allen, aurora, colorado

The real antichrist will only be known for sure when he stops the Jews from having their daily sacrifices and sets up an image of himself to be worshipped in their temple.

The Jews are only now restarting the sacrifices and are only now starting to talk about rebuilding the temple.

Traveler, BC, canada

The Antichrist will appear but when and who it is isn't clear. I have a theory on who it may be and so far he fits the bill. I will see if it is true or not.

I am sure the Antichrist will fit in with the mainstream way of thinking when he does arrive.

We will know who he is because the mark and the guillotine will come with him.

I think the Pope is in a unique position in the world because the medium prints what he says and ignore so many other church leaders.

Chris McMahon, San franscico, CA

How could someone who preaches peace (sound familiar?) and stewardship for God's beautiful creation be the Antichrist?

Christine Williams, Columbia, Missouri

@Father Storey: I suppose that, in order to be a firm advocate of periodic abstinence, those are the kind of 'facts' you need to believe in. Sounds like wishful speculation to me.

Jay, Nottingham,

Condoms do alot of good aswell. Despite the Churchs teachings on contraceptives, it is not surely better to enjoy what comes naturally to every living being on the planet, the need to reproduce and survive, than to bring unwanted, unloved children into the world? Is the orgasm itself not a gift from God? Yes, sex is exploited and abused throughout the world, but not by everyone. Religious leaders need to get in touch with the real world out there.I believe that no antichrist or ' dilution' of religion will destroy the Church, in time it will destroy itself unless it changes. The Church, unlike the rest of the world, has yet to evolve.

PJ, Newry, N.Ireland

Why do I need to ask God about this? It's just logical. Look at your own reactions to these words:
Truth vs Lies
Beauty vs ugliness
Goodness vs badness
Am I alone in thinking it's obvious which ones have a positive meaning?

But pacifism vs non-pacifism
principled vs compromising (the ecumenical point)

It's uncertain which values are positive and which are not.....indeed in certain situations each may be - that's what makes them relative values.

Theo, London, UK

"Christianity" has been the most un-Christlike creation in the last 2000 years. Who cares what some cadinal thinks.
These are the folks that brought you the inquisition and murder in the name of God before even Islam did.

Marc, Los Angeles, CA, US

Bible-believing Christians from the different denominations know that the Antichrist WILL come, and he will be able to deceive millions around the globe, because this will be his hour. Unbelievers in Christ Jesus will be doomed and unable to resist his charismatic charm. He will be seen as the savior of the planet and mankind, but he will be just the opposite. Read Revelation 13; I, II, & III John; Daniel; and the rest of the Bible. The stage is being set for the entrance of the Antichrist, and he is probably already alive in the world. The spirit of antichrist is, indeed, already in the world, just as the Bible teaches. May all come to salvation through Jesus our Lord and escape the wrath to come.
God's mercy on all.

Debrah, Manila, USA

I don't believe he is referring to the kind of "peace" that you and I and other Christians would see as peace. It would seem he is referring to the type of "peace" put out by the liberal media these days. You know, complete tolerance of sin and all it's variations. Doesn't it make sense that in the future when the Antichrist has temporary rule of the planet, he will make it against the law to have Christian beliefs because in his view they would be "intollerant" and would cause a disturbance of he "peace". That's my take on the liberal's view of peace vs. Christ's view of peace: obedience to the will of God via His commandments.

Brenda, Auburn, CA

Wake up and smell the coffee, Cherry and co. First of all, you can be a virgin until you marry and still catch HIV off your hubby. Secondly, you can advocate abstinence all you want, preach to kingdom come, but it's not going to happen. The human race isn't as civilised as it makes itself out to be.

Starling, Lancaster,

She may be anti-Roman Catholic but certainly not AntiChrist. Certainly, all Christian confessions should be drawn together, whether the Roman Catholics would be included or not. A consideration would be to draw together all of the sons and daughters of Abraham. Without a doubt, she would be a pacifist, as well as, an ecologist.

Shekinah blessings.

XianMyst, Fairmount, USA/Georgia

A Godless society is not the answer to our problems. The 4 biggest tragedies in modern history were led by men who were athiests who were no respectors of faith and who believed in evolution. These men were Joseph Stalin, Adolf Hitler, Mautse Tung, and Pol Pot. Each of these men ruthlessly killed millions of people. Jesus is the way the truth and the life - and your Savior if you wish.

Todd, Saint Paul, MN USA

Eleanor, What is good behaviour? What are high moral standards? Could you get even a small group of people to come to consenus? If I eat meat, am I good or bad? If I drive a gas guzzler, am I bad? If I want 4 wives, is that good? YOU people who despise religion can't recognize that there is much more to humanity than that which we can see. No one on earth could possibly be labeled a "good" person! We are all flawed and sinful. Rejoice that we have someone (in Jesus) who can deliver us from evil-Someone who knows the absolute truths of the world-and can see our hearts! Cardinal Biffi is a human being, flawed like the rest of us. Because of his position within the Church, we give him respect and consideration. He is not infallible....and the Church clearly states this. God gave us the blueprint for our lives because he loves us. Unfortunately too many people want to live life by their own judgements. I challenge you to read the diary of St. Faustina.

Matt, Kansas City, Missouri

"the Antichrist is surely the Vatican and Pope with their devastating views and teachings on things such as contraception when entire countries are being destroyed by HIV and over-population."

Is that right, Eleanor? I guess the Pope should push women to use contraception so that they can continue to pimp themselves to men that will use them. And the Pope should agree that people should never learn to control their sexual impulses...it should always control them.

Cherry, San Diego, CA

Eleanor, that's not a nice thing to say about the Pope who does know a thing or two. Sexual purity is so important and really helps us to love deeply. Condoms are doing enormous harm in deceiving us about progress in the field of AIDS. A firm advocate of periodic abstinence told me recently that many African countries would have coped with HIV by now if they'd had an abstinence programme rather than putting people on condoms.Facts are sometimes stranger than fiction.

Father Bryan Storey , Tintagel, UK

Religious prediction of the imminent end of the world #18,478,946,112; join the fun, collect them all. If he wasn't a priest, who'd listen to him? What is it about religion that grants respectability to people talking utter twaddle?

Frankly, I think this story's wandered in from the comics section. The former Archbiship of Boloney is quoting a 19th century Russian Mystic (Ra-Ra-Rasputin... actually not, but he's in the same fruit-and-nut basket) to prove that a liberal will cause the end of the world. Did anyone actually need to be told that he was an arch-conservative?

Matthew Austin, London, UK

This is certainly a time of immense confusion. I feel the weight of the world and it's worldy views. I am yearning for a fuller experience in the spirit for my family and I. I see that the church is being destroyed from within by worldly men. Likewise, I see the U.S.A. being used as a weapon to subvert the world with it's false ideas, idols etc. For me at least it's like I'm waking up to the fact every day. I see the denial of my brothers and sisters but I know that I must serve God first. The idea of Salvation is a profound thing for me. It's like it's become the salvation of the self. How else can I put it? To be fully in the service of God. AntiChrist is the spirit of the present worldwide revolution that is contrary to the message of the absolute truth that Christ beholds. It has always existed but I sense that presently it is increasing thanks to worldly advances and focus on material gain instead of spiritual gain. It is painful to observe. However, more and more people are waking up to the fact every day.

Brian, New York City,

Dear Cardinal Biffi:
The Rusian philosopher Solovyov argued in the Justification of the Good, that the place of the Church was to promote "piety" and that the place of the state was to "improve the condition of mankind".
It is hard to see how your position regarding, the evil of pacifism and ecology fits into the role Solovyov put you in.
Render unto the state that which is the state' which according to Solovyov is to "improve the condition of humanity." Your role is to Pray for our survival!
Of course maybe you don't think the survival of the species is a Good.

John Rinaldo, Long Beach, California

The sooner the human race gets over its blind belief in Bronze age mythology the better for us all. I'm so fed up with religion.

matthew, London,

More proof that we all need to move into the 21st century and consign superstition to the dustbin of history.

tony dummelow, birmingham,

Given his performance at the Academy Awards and his recent claims that "global warming" is a moral, ethical and spiritual issue, my vote for the anti-Christ is Al Gore. The mind numbed elite at the awards certainly went out of their way to deify him.

Jim, La Canada, CA, USA

It gets very irritating when people can't separate good behaviour and high moral standards from religion. Theo, I don't need to look at or understand anything vaguely religious to "live up to" a certain standard. It's simply about being a good human being and respecting other people. If you need the bible to tell you something as basic as that you obviously can't think for yourself.

Eleanor, London, England

Ah, so love of peace is only relative whereas goodness, truth and beauty are not?

Surely the notion of "goodness", more than most other values, is totally dependent upon whichever society we live in? Isn't "truth" a strange concept when each individual must interact with and form their own view of the environment? And "beauty" is an absolute?!

Unless, of course, it is only "the Church" that is right in these matters entitling it to lecture everyone else. Makes a bit of a mockery of the idea of free will though...

Phyllis, London,

How can one be an anti of something that does not exist?

robert, vancouver bc, canada

Sadly, reviewing the other comments of this section, it is obvious where Europe is headed and our country as well, as no one truely believes. "Man" has put himself before God-that is IS a God. Ultimately, the Truth will be told when you die.

Jaded believer, Cleveland,

My money is on French ecologist Nicolas Hulot. Most of the candidates for the French presidency have signed his pact, although we are not told whether they used blood or not !

Lucy Georges, Nancy, France

Most people have become so full of themselves that it is as though they have beome god. I always have to chuckle when I read of the most-high intellectuals that comment on items regarding God and faith. The comments about how smart society has become is older than religion. Man has always wanted to be smarter than God. Man has always wanted to follow his selfish ways. Why? Because if God is God, man is accountable. Man does not want accountability. It is as simple as that.

Daryl, Caldwell, Texas

I can't see anything that surprising about his view. This is standard an orthodox Christian view. People are Christian because of their personal encounter/relationship with Christ and not simply because they think it's a good idea. The fact that it is a totally coherent belief system that incorporates the best ideas and seems to diagnose the human condition better than any other view is not the foundation of faith.

Goodness means "holiness" or absolute moral perfection. It's not a "warm fuzzy slogan"....it's defined by the life of Jesus. Even if you don't believe in him, see if you can live up to the standard set by the character described in the gospels (even for one day) and you'll soon discover how absolute this is.

Theo, London, UK

Have YOU spoken with God about this?

Kinty Kimmick, Westfield,

""Love of peace" either exists in a person or it doesn't, and is therefore absolute." Really?......so a person that upholds his love of peace absolutely will take no action whatsoever in the face of an evil aggressor. Invasion, terrorism, violence, tyranny, rape, murder....nothing would move this pacifist from his position of non-violence. We'd probably respect him for it. That may be the case, but what the Cardinal is pointing out is that even if this position is adhered to because it's in some sense "good", it becomes absurd when taken to an extreme and can be self-defeating. It's relative because in some instances it does good, but in others it does great harm, if harm means the progress of evil.

You can't say the same about "goodness", "truth" or "beauty"....

Theo, London, UK

If Christ is supposed to be the savior of humanity, the Antichrist is surely the Vatican and Pope with their devastating views and teachings on things such as contraception when entire countries are being destroyed by HIV and over-population.

Eleanor, London, England

Who is Creator must be perfection.
Who is perfection must be invulnerable.
Who is invulnerable needs no defence.
Who offers love cannot require submission.
Who offers free will cannot require obedience.
Who offers peace cannot require conflict.
Who offers joy cannot require suffering.
Who offers forgiveness cannot require retribution.

Gerard Mulholland, Paris, France

Very sad people with minds full of demons, hellfire and antichrist - they obviously need professional help.

alan, cologne,

Hey, better a "set of values" than empty ritual. As Tolstoy points out, what's that cross the cardinal's wearing on his chest if it's not an idol?

He maybe needs a better translator too. "Love of peace" either exists in a person or it doesn't, and is therefore absolute. "Love of goodness" is just a warm fuzzy slogan and, since you can't define "goodness," is at best relative, at worst meaningless.

Ian Kemmish, Biggleswade, UK

Well, technically the term 'antichrist' refers to someone who is not Christ. I'm not Christ...does that make me the Antichrist? If so...please get in line and follow me my dear sheep. Are people STILL really that ignorant?

RC, london,

I wonder if Vatican worries about climate change ?
The greatest Antichrist should be the Vatican.
Why do they not tell people the truth ,instead of dragging us towards vain debate.

aubin bambale, London, Uk

When you start with rubbish you subdived it only into more rubbish. As the Church finds itself surrounded by logic, common sense and a growing body of people who challenge the very basis of its beliefs, breathtaking absurdity like this can only hasten the demise of the church and happily make way for a people who can see through this nonsense

A E Slarke, Rome, Italy

Gor, blimey.

James Montgomery, NYC, USA

Sounds like a good guy, with his mind on important issues.

Dean, Sydney, Australia

Please note the central message of Card. Biff:

Cardinal Biffi said that the Antichrist was not necessarily a person but “the reduction of Christianity to an ideology... Christianity cannot be reduced to a set of values. At the heart of being a Christian is the personal encounter with Jesus Christ."

That is something the church and the pope have been saying for a long time

V. Perl, Santiago, Chile

Thank God it's not Bush.

Mike McCurdy, Bellingham, WA, US

I think this guy is already wandering around in America. Al Gore would seem to fit the bill with his characterization of climate change issues, a scientific problem, as a "moral" one.

Doug , Calgary, Canada

I wonder where this ecophobic cardinal was when I got kicked out of Catholic University for demanding that the institution respect the no-smoking
ordinance enacted by the local government. Where was the beauty there?

Eugene, Heidelberg, germany

If one turns the environmental movement into a cult-like authority....then the Cardinal is correct. For anyone who has actually taken a science class or two in university....lesson one is that nothing is absolute. Everything ever discovered...has always been corrected...in some cases...dozens of times. Even Einstein's greatest ideas are today under debate. For any global warming expert to say his models or his predictions are absolute and not to be debated...he has just put himself outside of the circle of true science...and possibly into the circle of a science cult. This is the sad state of global warming...we need absolute facts. The model game as we have now seen.....can be very deceptive (as if on purpose). The fact in recent days we find that Al Gore uses 20 times the amount of energy as a normal facily....doesn't help. The Pope may quietly be sending a message on this entire issue.

R.Hammond, Mehlingen, Germany