I am reading this book and this passage just struck me, so I will put it here:
"It is not really my business to speak out about it, but since there is such a frightful apathy and passivity everywhere, with people simply unable to face the issue squarely, and with only a stray voice raised tentatively here and there, it has become an urgent obligation."
Thomas Merton wrote this in 1961, his topic was "international crisis". My topic which I think it transcends, is abortion. He goes on to say:
"Prayer of course remains my chief means, but it is also an obligation on my part to speak out insofar as I am able, and to speak as clearly, as forthrightly and as uncompromisingly as I can. A lot of people are not going to like this and it may mean my head, so do please pray for me in a very special way, because I cannot in conscience willingly betray the truth or let it be betrayed. The issue is too serious. This is purely and simply the crucifixion over again."
Thomas Merton, pray for us! Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on us!
