The theory of Limbo is about to be abolished by the Roman Catholic Church. It gives me absurd happiness to think that the people have a better understanding of God's grace today than they did in the stricter religious structures of 800 ago.

I was confirmed in a very strict synod of my Lutheran faith...the Lutherans strayed from the Catholic Church, of course, but our basis in faith is the one and the same. I was taught Original Sin, and the cleansing of Baptism...but I always felt this immense sorrow for the infants with non-religious parents who make the choice not to wash away that sin. It's hard, religion today. We live in a society that feeds on proof, not simple belief. I know I've mentioned it many times now, but I almost attended Seminary, wanting to become a Pastor in my faith. I've always been philosophical more on the theological side, and know that when I can't reason out an answer, my higher power will. I know few my age who know this so wholly. I am lucky.

Limbo was defined centuries past as a place between Heaven and Hell where the good but unbaptized go in their afterlife. It isn't a terrible place, but it certainly isn't Heaven, we're taught. But it always bothered me...the thought that our loving, gracious Lord wouldn't welcome a baby who died before being baptized into his home and into his protecting arms. Instead of Original Sin, I always chose to believe in my own theory: Original Forgiveness.

I am excited about this eradication of a scare tactic faith. I remember often the words of one my Pastors over the years: "Jesus didn't scare the Hell out of people. He warmed the Heaven in." This is a very good thing.