Read this, but read it with some reservation

If you've been a practicing Catholic for most of your life, then you'll be aware of the majority of the issues that Marshall brings to light here on a general basis, but not at the depth he presents. This might be a painful read for most, but an important one. Since the very beginning of the Church, Christ left it in the hands of men. Weakened by our fallen nature, men and the divisive political leanings of some have brought it to where we are today. Sure, our protestant brothers have splintered in different directions, but we can see a definite split within the Church today. Marshall pinpoints, historically, where those splits happened and what has become of it. Although Marshall cites most of his sources, he sometimes makes accusations and generalizations about individuals or movements without backing it up. For example, he shows several examples of why John Paul II's papacy was riddled with moments that lapsed in judgment without backing up his statements. The same holds true for most of what he says about Benedict XVI. Like most 'traditionalists', he seems to point to Vatican II as the ultimate break from 'true' Catholicism - the breakdown of the liturgy and the relaxing of strict rules previously defined by earlier councils. Several contemporary experts agree that Vatican II wasn't without problems, but the majority of the issues and confusion that came from it was its implementation. John Paul II went back to Poland after the council and rigorously educated his people on the meaning of the council writings and successfully implemented it in Krakow, whereas the liberal leaning Bishops saw Vatican II as an opportunity for change. There are some riveting sections that Marshall highlights from the Marian apparitions at LaSalette and Fatima that shows that Our Lady foretold these events long before they happened. So, the message of Fatima is so much more important today than ever. 'Penance, penance, penance' the Angel told the children. To reclaim 'our' Church, we need penance today. Read this, but read it with some reservation. All hope is NOT lost. Yes, the Church has been infiltrated and as long as men with fallen nature run it, there will always be problems. As Padre Pio said, 'Pray, hope and don't worry'.