# Faith and hope in a world of atheism
*2018-09-30*

> Bill Young reflects on the nature of faith and hope after listening to an atheist podcast, arguing that a belief in God is the only true remedy for the evil and despair seen in the world.

## The Atheist Experience vs. The Christian Experience

Recently, I came across a show called 'The Atheist Experience' featuring hosts Matt and Jen from Austin, Texas. It struck me that while they speak of the 'atheist experience,' I have the Catholic and Christian experience. For me, our Lord Jesus Christ is amazing. I have shared my personal experiences across over 1,500 podcasts, and while some might dispute them or think I am crazy, these experiences are the foundation of my faith.

## The Necessity of Hope in Suffering

Faith and hope are individual experiences. I think of my nephew, who struggled with bipolar disorder and eventually took his own life; that is the tragedy of losing hope. I also think of the families I work with through a cancer foundation, including a mother who lost her daughter and another whose son passed away just one day after his ninth birthday. When science tells a family there is no more hope, that is where the divide lies. If you are an atheist, when the door closes, that is it—nothingness. But for the believer, there is a hereafter.

## Addressing Evil and the Role of Prayer

When we look at the mass murders and hatred in our world—from the tragedy in Parkland to attacks on Jewish communities—we have to ask: is this just happenstance? I believe this evil stems from a lack of faith and the influence of Satan, who desires a world without God. I also believe that removing prayer from our schools and sporting events has contributed to the current state of our society. A true believer in Jesus Christ, who taught us to love our neighbors and our enemies, does not kill. Love must prevail over hatred.

## Science, Miracles, and Intelligence

As a Catholic, I believe in science, as does the Pope. However, science cannot explain everything. There are documented miracles—healings that doctors cannot explain—that prove God's presence. Furthermore, the idea that human intelligence and the ability to reach the moon evolved simply from monkeys is a stretch. God gave us our intelligence and our free will. While humans are imperfect and sinners—and we must acknowledge the appalling sins committed by some within the Church—the imperfections of humans do not change the perfection of God.

## A Call to Mercy

To those who identify as atheists, I want you to know that there is still hope for you. Jesus Christ died for all sinners. We are currently observing the Divine Mercy Novena, and on the fourth day, the Lord asks us to bring Him those who do not believe in God and those who do not know Him. I pray for Matt, Jen, and all those who have lost their way, that they may return to the Lord and find true fulfillment and happiness.

*Without faith in God, there is no true hope, but through the mercy of Jesus Christ, salvation is available to everyone.*