By Susan Brinkmann, OCDS Staff Writer Pope Benedict XVI opened the Synod of Bishops on the Bible yesterday with a warning that nations once rich in faith are losing their identity under the influence of "a certain modern culture.” Speaking to more than 250 synod fathers at a Mass at the Basilica of St. Paul’s Outside the Walls on Oct. 5, he said, “There are those, who, after deciding that 'God is dead,' declare themselves to be 'god' and the artisan of their own destiny, the absolute master of the world.”  In casting off God, man believes that he can do whatever he likes and set himself up as the sole measure of himself and his action, the Pope said. However, as daily events abundantly demonstrate, man’s rejection of God brings the expansion of arbitrary power, unbridled pursuit of selfish interest, injustice, ruthless exploitation, and all manner of violence. In the end, man finds himself more alone, and society is more divided and confused. "When men proclaim themselves to be absolute masters of themselves and sole masters of creation, can they truly build a society where freedom, justice and peace reign," he asked. For the next three weeks, the synod participants will prayerfully reflect upon and discuss "The Word of God in the life and mission of the Church," together with lay and religious auditors from around the world, and with the help of many experts in the sacred sciences, says Radio Vaticana.   Pope Benedict began his homily with a reflection on this Sunday's Gospel reading, in which the Lord recounts the parable of the landlord, whose tenants mistreat his servants and kill his son. The Pope said the Gospel reading applies to our own way of thinking and acting; it applies especially to those peoples who have received the proclamation of the Gospel. If we look at history, he said, we are forced to recognize that it is not rare for inconsistent Christians to be cold and rebellious. The Holy Father went on to note how in our day, nations that at one time were rich in faith and vocations are losing their identity, under the harmful and destructive influence of a certain modern culture. However, Pope Benedict told the faithful there is a promise in the words of Jesus: the vineyard will not be destroyed. "The message of consolation that we take from these biblical texts, is the certainty that evil and death do not have the last word,” the Pope said. “It is Christ who triumphs in the end. Always!” © All Rights Reserved, Living His Life Abundantly/Women of Grace. http://www.womenofgrace.com