We usually speak of the sin of Adam as "the fall of mankind", and there is much truth in that. However we may look at this "fall" not simply as an event in human history but as a way of understanding many occurrences in human history: in reality, mankind has had and continues to have many "fall" experiences. Thus some theologians would see the Crucifixion of Jesus as the "real fall of humanity". Today's reading from the First Letter of John, speaks about light and dark. Humanity has gone though and continues, on an almost daily basis, to go through very many dark periods. The feast of the Holy Innocents is a reminder of a dark period, a period which continues and which has become legally enshrined in those countries which have legislated for abortion as a so-called "human right". By the mercy of God we are promised, in John's words, that the darkness is passing and that the true light is already shining. Some people who have advocated legalized abortion have seen the light, repented and joined the pro-life movement. The true light had in some degree, touched their minds and hearts and overcome the darkness.