Mexican Catholicism

[Wesley7]

Would you say that Mexican Catholics developed a distinct form of Catholicism than the American Traditionalist style? . .

 

[YoungTradCath]

Yes, as much as I would say that Catholicism has developed very differently in almost every country.

 

[Aelred_Minor]

It’s my understanding that there is considerable diversity between different parts of Mexico too (there’s diversity within the United States too of course).

In college I read a book about some contemporary Mayans in southern Mexico most of whom called themselves “Catholic” but didn’t believe or practice what we would recognize as Christianity (turkey sacrifices to wind lords and such pagan nonsense). Obviously they are an extreme example not at all representative of Mexico as a whole, but it shows that there is considerable diversity.

 

[Pfaffenhoffen]

Would you say that Mexican Catholics developed a distinct form of Catholicism than the American Traditionalist style? . .

Be more general: Latin Countries versus German countries versus Anglo countries. I think it is more generic.

I would say that Latins are more moved by feelings, Germany has got very good theologians (see the Pope, doctorate in Theology, a deep thinker, his books are just wonderful, everybody should read them all even though not understanding the deep meaning), and deep reflection, Anglo (what shall I say?) more traditional and more ritual (I went to a mass at Westminster Cathedral in London (no confusion with West. Abbey which was Catholic but now is Protestant) that was one of the most moving masses I ever went in my life: the ritual, the hymns everybody singing, the organ, even now, past some time, it moves me to tears).

That is a very, very, very general distinction with all the errors that such a distinction say. And I did not want to quote the bad aspects, only the good ones.

 

[puzzleannie]

Would you say that Mexican Catholics developed a distinct form of Catholicism than the American Traditionalist style? . .

yes, and also that popular piety and expressions in Mexico very by area and ethnic sub-groups, as is true of this country. There are very distinct regional differences in many areas of Catholic practice in Mexico.