Arguably the most respected Catholic systematic theologian in the English-speaking world, David Tracy's growing influence internationally and on persons of other Christian traditions and his ability to communicate with representaives of the secular academy stem from the unique quality of his voice. This collection of essays addresses the meaning of the present in light of the future. It is is both critical of the present world yet at the same time affirming of its importance and meaning. Tracy shows how the troubled present is itself pregnant with the future.