During this period, many men will abuse the freedom of conscience conceded to them. Discipline will suffer. The Holy Canons will be completely disregarded, and the Clergy will not respect the laws of the Church. As a result, no principle at all, however holy, authentic, ancient, and certain it may be, will remain free of censure, criticism, false interpretations, modification and delimitation by man. These are evil times, a century full of dangers and calamities.
Heresy is everywhere, and the followers of heresy are in power almost everywhere.
Bishops, prelates, and priests say that they are doing their duty, that they are vigilant, and that they live as befits their state in life. In like manner, therefore, they all seek excuses. At that time there will be such a terrible crisis that people will believe that the end of the world has come. Blood will flow in many large cities. The very elements will be convulsed.