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 and during the so-called Reformation of the sixteenth century. Similar wars will attend the coming of Antichrist.

13. In various passages of Scripture stars represent the faithful. In the first chapter of the Apocalypse the bishops of the Church are symbolized by stars. The falling stars predict the defection of large numbers of bishops, priests, and faithful from the true Faith. History shows how these words were verified in the Arian heresy, the Greek schism, and the so-called Reformation.

The stars fall thick and fast like winter figs from a tree shaken by a strong wind. Discord and laxity in church discipline prepare the way for great defections in time of trial and persecution.

14, 15. The heavens are folded up as a scroll; earthly powers (mountains and islands) are in turmoil. Kings and princes flee for safety. This is a fitting description of the fall of the Roman Empire under the barbarian inroads. The prophecy was also fulfilled in the overthrow of the Byzantine Empire by the Moslems, a punishment of God for heresy and schism. The prophets of old foretold the fall of ancient empires in similar language.

When applied to the last days of the world these