Another wild and crazy year comes to an end. There have been more twists and turns than I can recount, with political intrigue and acrimony certainly not diminishing. The world has seen continuing tensions yet also some glimmers that long standing issues have a chance of resolution, or at least realignment.
The run-up to the midterm elections never lacked for drama, with the most consequential activity being the confirmation of Judge Brett Kavanaugh to the US Supreme Court. In spite of the bizarre and desperate tactics employed to try to derail his nomination, he now sits on the Supreme Court which may play a pivotal role in redirecting the legal trends in our nation, hopefully in a more Constitutional direction. Meanwhile, the midterm election outcome had something for everybody, with the Democrats taking control of the House and the Republicans strengthening their margin in the Senate.
How much and what you've heard about any of these situations may depend on what sources you are obtaining your news from. One of the top stories of our times surely is the credibility gaps of various sources of information. It's no wonder the public is so divided when there are differing perceptions on what is real v. "fake" news.
It is said that politics is downstream of culture and morals. Among the most significant events globally has been the heightened scandals in the Catholic Church relating to sexual abuse and the higher level failure to respond sufficiently. What is really in play is the ability of the Church to challenge the popular culture where it has gone astray. Among the many figures playing conflicting roles of influence in this situation, Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò may be remembered for playing a most consequential role in shedding light on the behind the scenes developments of recent years. Regardless of the scandals and upheavals, the Church has been through similar trials before and the Real Presence of Jesus Christ, both sacramentally and as head of the Church, will prevail in the end.
Even with all of the political and social upheaval going on, amazing progress continues to be made in medicine, technology and other fronts. 2019 will likely see the resumption of human spaceflights launched from the US, this time on commercially developed vehicles. And to start the year, the NASA New Horizons spacecraft will unveil a mysterious little world in the Outer Solar System called Ultima Thule. How's that for ringing in the New Year!
May we continue to make headway in protecting life and defending liberty while respecting the dignity of every person despite our differences. And may God's blessings and peace be upon you and yours and wishing all the best on this new frontier we call 2019.
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