Deliverance

Abstract

The great religions are now everywhere in decline, as regards their hold on men’s minds.¹ The claims of their doctrines have grown perceptibly less convincing. Multitudes whose loyalty yesterday was firm have deserted their allegiance. Calm certitudes that only recently resisted savage persecution have crumbled, and in many hearts where spiritual peace was once a reliable, if occasional, visitor, deep doubt and confusion have taken root. No doubt an intense enthusiasm is also apparent, and a determined clinging to traditions. But they are marked rather uniformly by a quality of shutting out the intellect, for fear.