Saint Judas?

A gospel from Judas' point of view is to be published soon.

Raises some interesting questions. In the Gospels, Judas was an essential part of God's plan. So why has the Christian church villified him? Without him, would Jesus have ever died? On the other hand, he was simply the means to an end. A good end does not necessarily a good means make.

In the end, how should the church view Judas' role in history?