Are We in the Last Days?

What Catholic Prophecy, the Catechism, and Scripture Say About the End Times For centuries, people have asked: Are we living in the last days? With increasing wars, natural disasters, moral decline, and apostasy, many wonder if we are approaching the Second Coming of Christ. Jesus Himself gave us signs to watch for: "You will hear of wars and rumors of wars… Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of the birth pains." (Matthew 24:6-8) The Catholic Church does not set dates for the end times, but Scripture, approved Marian apparitions, and the Catechism give clear guidance on what to expect - and how to spiritually prepare.

What Does the Church Teach About the End Times?

Many people misunderstand the Catholic view of the last days. The Church teaches that before Christ returns, several key events must take place.

A Final Trial Will Test the Faithful - "Before Christ’s Second Coming, the Church must pass through a final trial that will shake the faith of many believers." (CCC 675)
A Great Apostasy (Falling Away from the Faith) - "The Church will enter the glory of the kingdom only through this final Passover, when she will follow her Lord in His death and Resurrection." (CCC 677)
The Rise of the Antichrist - The Church warns of a great deceiver who will perform false miracles and lead many away from the truth (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4).
Christ Will Return as Judge - At the end of time, Jesus will return to judge the living and the dead and establish His eternal Kingdom.

What Are the Signs of the End Times?

Jesus outlined specific events that would occur before His return:

Increased Wars & Natural Disasters - (Matthew 24:6-8)
The Gospel Will Be Preached to All Nations - (Matthew 24:14)
A Great Persecution of Christians – (Matthew 24:9)
The Rise of False Prophets & Apostasy - (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4)
The Arrival of the Antichrist – (Revelation 13:1-8)
A Final Warning & Illumination of Conscience - (Revelation 6:12-17, prophecy from mystics)
The Second Coming of Christ & Final Judgment - (Matthew 25:31-46)

Do we see these signs today? Many believe we are approaching critical times-but Jesus reminds us: "No one knows the day or the hour." (Matthew 24:36)

Instead of fear, we should focus on being spiritually prepared.

Marian Prophecies: Warnings from Approved Apparitions

Throughout history, the Virgin Mary has appeared to warn us about future events and call us to conversion.

Our Lady of Fatima (1917, Portugal)

Warned that Russia would spread its errors (communism) if people did not repent.
Predicted World War II if humanity did not return to God.
Called for prayer, fasting, and the Rosary to prevent greater chastisements.

"In the end, my Immaculate Heart will triumph."

Our Lady of Akita (1973, Japan)

Foretold a time when the Church would be filled with division and corruption.
Warned of fire falling from the sky if the world did not repent.

"The work of the devil will infiltrate even into the Church in such a way that one will see cardinals opposing cardinals, bishops against bishops."

St. Faustina’s Vision of the Illumination of Conscience

Jesus revealed to St. Faustina a coming "Warning" - a global event where every soul will see their sins as God sees them. This is believed to be a final call to conversion before the last tribulations. "Before the Day of Justice, I am sending the Day of Mercy." (Diary of St. Faustina 1588) These prophecies encourage us to repent, pray, and trust in God’s mercy.

How to Spiritually Prepare for the Last Days

Instead of fearing the future, Jesus calls us to be spiritually ready.

How to Prepare:

Stay in a State of Grace – Go to Confession regularly to keep your soul pure.
Receive the Eucharist Frequently – The Body of Christ is our greatest strength in spiritual battles.
Pray the Rosary Daily – Our Lady specifically asked for this at Fatima and Akita.
Fast & Offer Sacrifices – Fasting strengthens the soul and combats evil.
Read Scripture – Jesus gave us clear instructions on how to endure trials.
Trust in God’s Mercy – No matter what happens, God’s love is greater than any crisis.

"When you see these things happening, stand up and lift your heads, for your redemption is near." (Luke 21:28)

What If We Are Not in the Last Days?

Even if Christ does not return in our lifetime, we all will face our own personal end times at death.

Are we ready to meet Jesus today?
Are we living with love, faith, and holiness?
Are we helping others prepare for eternity?

St. John Paul II reminds us: "Do not be afraid. Open wide the doors for Christ!"

Instead of worrying about when the end will come, we should focus on living each day as if it were our last.

6. Final Thought: The End is Not the End - It’s the Beginning

The Second Coming of Christ is not something to fear, but something to prepare for with joy! Jesus promised: "Behold, I am coming soon." (Revelation 22:12) We are not alone - God has given us everything we need to endure whatever comes.

Take Action Today:

Pray for the grace to remain faithful.
Strengthen your soul through the sacraments.
Stay close to Scripture and Church teaching.
Trust in God’s divine plan.

"He who endures to the end will be saved." (Matthew 24:13) Are you ready to live with faith and hope, no matter what the future holds?

>> Watch the video: https://youtu.be/fSyCRuo0eiY