Non-Catholics: Why are you here?

[CopticChristian]

I have hardly ever posted on the website, and I normally browse around looking at various forums to understand what Catholics believe. I was raised by a Methodist minister and have a special kind of love for religion. Recently I’ve read several books on Catholicism: Threshold of Hope, Jesus of Nazareth, and Opus Dei. These books have had a significant impact on me, and I’m seriously considering reconciling and converting to the Catholic church.

However, I still do have some major issues with the church, so I continue to just bum around these forums until I finally can decide on what do.

Is it reasonable to ask what are the major issues?

 

[Cowboy_Pete]

I’ve noticed that there are a lot of non-Catholics here, and many of them seem to just want to argue with Church teachings. I can’t help but think they’re here to convert us.

I’m not here to convert anyone. I’m here to correct false statements about my church teachings.

I actually stumbled onto your site while googling for some information about my church history. It astonishes me how much you discuss mormons here, and how much disinformation is being disseminated.

I grew up in Catholic countries (France and Mexico) and whenever I’ve seen a fellow-mormon making ignorant remarks about your church, I’ve corrected them. Why should I do less for my own church?

Catholics and Mormons stand for a lot of the same things, and we have a lot of the same enemies. Enemies that would like nothing more than to see us defaming each other, rather than making a common stand.

 

[Tyler1234]

Catholics and Mormons stand for a lot of the same things, and we have a lot of the same enemies. Enemies that would like nothing more than to see us defaming each other, rather than making a common stand.

I don’t believe that the church could possibly be hostile to anyone, but Clearly there are people who are hostile to the church. But yes, I agree with your statement… I’d be willing to bet that anti-Christians are loving this interdenominational rivalry.

We must all remember that no matter who holds the ‘absolute truth’, that we are all brothers and sisters united under Jesus Christ, our lord and savior.

 

[Cowboy_Pete]

I don’t believe that the church could possibly be hostile to anyone, but Clearly there are people who are hostile to the church. But yes, I agree with your statement… I’d be willing to bet that anti-Christians are loving this interdenominational rivalry.

We must all remember that no matter who holds the ‘absolute truth’, that we are all brothers and sisters united under Jesus Christ, our lord and savior.

Amen, brother!

 

[CopticChristian]

I don’t believe that the church could possibly be hostile to anyone, but Clearly there are people who are hostile to the church. But yes, I agree with your statement… I’d be willing to bet that anti-Christians are loving this interdenominational rivalry.

We must all remember that no matter who holds the ‘absolute truth’, that we are all brothers and sisters united under Jesus Christ, our lord and savior.

The Official Catholic Position is that the deposit of Faith resides in the One Holy Catholic Apostolic Church, this is Catholic Answers, independent of the OHCAC, supporting and defending that position. The OHCAC is not a denomination. That is the official position.

These are quotes from Guanophore that settle this issue.

Persons who have unknowingly embraced heresies, as most Evangelical Protestants have, are considered “improperly united”. That is why they are called “separated brethren”. United in one faith by baptism, yet separated by divisive doctrines.

The Catholic Church is not a “denomination”. It is the One Church founded by Jesus, from which all others have denominated. And with each and every denomination, more of the Gospel message has been lost.

He usually gets around to providing the official position. Thought I would save some time here.

 

[PatsBreastplate]

Unlike the individual above, I am seriously considering a Catholic conversion, having been left spiritually empty by Protestantism which was born some 1,500 years after Christ gave authority to Peter to found His Church.

Well, I’m no convert (Been Catholic all my life! ) but I realize how empty protestants must be! Bless their hearts, I’ve seen very good Christians among them , but I just don’t see how they…how shall I say…tank up! From my point of view, nothing could be more dry than sitting in a pew singing all the time. (I don’t know if that’s ALL they do, but it’s the most I’ve ever seen them do.)
If you are looking for the living water, look no further! We’ve got Jesus’ body and blood here!

 

[melck]

Yes I would like to agree , to learn more about ,non-christian faiths , I believe JESUS is my one and only saviour , what do you guys believe , I believe you have very many followers

 

[CopticChristian]

Well, I’m no convert (Been Catholic all my life! ) but I realize how empty protestants must be! Bless their hearts, I’ve seen very good Christians among them , but I just don’t see how they…how shall I say…tank up! From my point of view, nothing could be more dry than sitting in a pew singing all the time. (I don’t know if that’s ALL they do, but it’s the most I’ve ever seen them do.)
If you are looking for the living water, look no further! We’ve got Jesus’ body and blood here!

We have the liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist in the Mass. The Word is presented throughout the mass, Old Testament, Psalms, Epistles, Gospel.

Protestants tank up on the Liturgy of the Word that is the all consuming part of their Church service, Wednesday service, Bible study, Friday service, and any other function they can use to tank up on the Liturgy of the Word. Now I am not saying it is an accurate and complete exegesis for it falls short in portraying Faith as your Faith and everytime the word “Word” is used it is refered to as Scripture, but that is how they tank up.

This has caused us to tank up and I wouldn’t say it was fair to say that they were empty, perhaps one loaf short of a meal or something like that.

 

[Milliardo]

Well, when I became a member here I was still Catholic. Since 2008 though I have been Orthodox, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

 

[CopticChristian]

Well, when I became a member here I was still Catholic. Since 2008 though I have been Orthodox, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Since 2008 and 2000 posts I see that the Orthodox call themselves One Holy Apostolic Church and I see that Rome and Orthodox refer to themselves as sister Churches. Is it possible that you are Catholic still? Is it possible that as we look to the future I too am Orthodox? Is it possible that I wouldn’t have it any other way?

 

[Milliardo]

Since 2008 and 2000 posts I see that the Orthodox call themselves One Holy Apostolic Church and I see that Rome and Orthodox refer to themselves as sister Churches. Is it possible that you are Catholic still? Is it possible that as we look to the future I too am Orthodox? Is it possible that I wouldn’t have it any other way?

A lot of questions, but I couldn’t answer any of them since we don’t know what the future brings. Each side hope for reconciliation–of course each according to one’s own terms as well. I think it will all come down to that.

 

[Annie39]

At one tim I was thinking about Catholicism, which is how I first came here. But now I just like to discuss theology and Christian living. Also, I think the divisions within Christianity are a bad thing, and so it is important to understand them and ultimately try to reconcile them in a meaningful way.

I would be interested in learning why you were thinking about Catholicism and why you decided against Her if you care to share that.

Annie

 

[LRegan]

I’m here because I think catholic.com and Catholic Answers are great sources of information. There isn’t a tone of hysterical condemnation. I wanted to find out more about some beliefs and practices and my answers are here. catholic.com is such a rich resource!

I am also always trying to be more compassionate, tactful, and rational, and I am finding some good examples here in the articles, and in some of the discussions in the forums, and on Catholic radio.

 

[Roy5]

I have come to believe two things.

(1) Different strokes for different folks. My difficulty with the Catholicism on my father’s side is that it seems to forbid real freedom of belief. If a Catholic refuses to accept any ex cathedra doctrine he or she is wrong! In other words, serious independent thinking is very limited.

Now, I enjoy weighing and pondering and even doubting, without feeling guilty or fear of heresy or whatnot. Catholicism really doesn't tolerate that. Millions of Catholic people do because they weigh and ponder and doubt, too, but the official position of the church is to accept what the church says - period! That troubles me. I am troubled by narrow-mindedness in such areas where the truth is so complex. With maybe 100 millions galaxies out there, we need humility. Churches may preach humility but often reflect arrogance.

(2**) Along the same line, Catholicism can seem rather legalistic**. What is mean is that there is only one way, say, to perform a Mass - the same everywhere in every church every Sunday morning. Granted, this has the advantage of conformity, but I rather like the idea that worship patterns aren't set in stone, that you don't have to read specific scriptures every Sunday in every church. I am rather impressed by the notion that there should be latitude for the spirit of God to work. If the pastor feels inspired to speak on a different text, do it. Otherwise this can seem likes a liturgical legalism. Is it all that different from the legalism Pharisees practiced and Christ spoke against?

  I've had to choose between Catholicism and Protestantism with both traditions represented in my heritage. I have leaned toward what some would call liberal (mainline)Protestantism, the sort that appreciates other faiths, that seeks to put the teachings of Christ into practice, that is less concerned with doctrines and liturgy and more with loving God and one another, that is disturbed when too much emphasis is placed upon ancient traditions and even some beliefs that were relevant or believable 2000 years ago but no longer are today, etc. Evangelical Protestantism tends to have the same basic problem as Catholicism. There is only one way and that is their way.

  Personally, I expect to greet plenty of Hindus and Muslims, Jews and Sikhs, yes, animists and perhaps even atheists in heaven. I'm happy to leave that up to God. We are saved by God's grace and not by doctrines, piety or by affiliation with any one faith.

  God bless people of every creed, color, culture and country. Religion should be a bridge and not a barrier. After all, we're all children of the same God.  If Catholicism would 'loosen up' I would find it more attractive. I know that few CAFers will agree with me, but I've shared my sentiment.

 

[Evelyn9151]

My extended family is Catholic but, from my Grandmother on down we are Lutherans. My Grandmother had a falling out with the Church by,I am now feeling a need to learn about Catholicism. I am here to learn.

 

[jesuspsr]

My extended family is Catholic but, from my Grandmother on down we are Lutherans. My Grandmother had a falling out with the Church by,I am now feeling a need to learn about Catholicism. I am here to learn.

Welcome, and may the Holy Spirit guide you and bless you.

jesus g

 

[CopticChristian]

I have come to believe two things.

(1) Different strokes for different folks. My difficulty with the Catholicism on my father’s side is that it seems to forbid real freedom of belief. If a Catholic refuses to accept any ex cathedra doctrine he or she is wrong! In other words, serious independent thinking is very limited.

Now, I enjoy weighing and pondering and even doubting, without feeling guilty or fear of heresy or whatnot. Catholicism really doesn't tolerate that. Millions of Catholic people do because they weigh and ponder and doubt, too, but the official position of the church is to accept what the church says - period! That troubles me. I am troubled by narrow-mindedness in such areas where the truth is so complex. With maybe 100 millions galaxies out there, we need humility. Churches may preach humility but often reflect arrogance.

(2**) Along the same line, Catholicism can seem rather legalistic**. What is mean is that there is only one way, say, to perform a Mass - the same everywhere in every church every Sunday morning. Granted, this has the advantage of conformity, but I rather like the idea that worship patterns aren't set in stone, that you don't have to read specific scriptures every Sunday in every church. I am rather impressed by the notion that there should be latitude for the spirit of God to work. If the pastor feels inspired to speak on a different text, do it. Otherwise this can seem likes a liturgical legalism. Is it all that different from the legalism Pharisees practiced and Christ spoke against?

  I've had to choose between Catholicism and Protestantism with both traditions represented in my heritage. I have leaned toward what some would call liberal (mainline)Protestantism, the sort that appreciates other faiths, that seeks to put the teachings of Christ into practice, that is less concerned with doctrines and liturgy and more with loving God and one another, that is disturbed when too much emphasis is placed upon ancient traditions and even some beliefs that were relevant or believable 2000 years ago but no longer are today, etc. Evangelical Protestantism tends to have the same basic problem as Catholicism. There is only one way and that is their way.

  Personally, I expect to greet plenty of Hindus and Muslims, Jews and Sikhs, yes, animists and perhaps even atheists in heaven. I'm happy to leave that up to God. We are saved by God's grace and not by doctrines, piety or by affiliation with any one faith.

  God bless people of every creed, color, culture and country. Religion should be a bridge and not a barrier. After all, we're all children of the same God.  If Catholicism would 'loosen up' I would find it more attractive. I know that few CAFers will agree with me, but I've shared my sentiment.

It would appear that you disagree with Paul, Lord help not my belief, rather my unbelief.

It appears that you believe that God was made to please man and not man to please God. The Mass is a celebration of unity with God. It is celebrated with the Bible being read in a 3 year period different passages daily. You do not understand the mass. You suggest that worship should please you and not God.

 

[CopticChristian]

I have come to believe two things.

(1) Different strokes for different folks. My difficulty with the Catholicism on my father’s side is that it seems to forbid real freedom of belief.

(2**) Along the same line, Catholicism can seem rather legalistic**. What is mean is that there is only one way, say, to perform a Mass - the same everywhere in every church every Sunday morning.  

  I've had to choose between Catholicism and Protestantism with both traditions represented in my heritage. I have leaned toward what some would call liberal (mainline)Protestantism, the sort that appreciates other faiths, that seeks to put the teachings of Christ into practice, that is less concerned with doctrines and liturgy and more with loving God and one another,  

  Personally, I expect to greet plenty of Hindus and Muslims, Jews and Sikhs, yes, animists and perhaps even atheists in heaven. I'm happy to leave that up to God. We are saved by God's grace and not by doctrines, piety or by affiliation with any one faith.

  God bless people of every creed, color, culture and country. Religion should be a bridge and not a barrier. After all, we're all children of the same God.  If Catholicism would 'loosen up' I would find it more attractive. I know that few CAFers will agree with me, but I've shared my sentiment.

We are saved by God’s grace and not by doctrines, piety or by affiliation with any one faith.

I believe that you may be leaning Catholic without knowing it. If you were to look at your Protestant Doctrine it would conclude Faith alone.

The Catholic Doctrine is saved by grace alone, through faith alone, working in love not of your doing it is a gift of God.

Your words are “saved by grace” and if you read carefully your subconscious stated “not…with any one faith”

Welcome aboard!:harp:::

 

[PatsBreastplate]

I have come to believe two things.

(1) Different strokes for different folks. My difficulty with the Catholicism on my father’s side is that it seems to forbid real freedom of belief. If a Catholic refuses to accept any ex cathedra doctrine he or she is wrong! In other words, serious independent thinking is very limited.

Now, I enjoy weighing and pondering and even doubting, without feeling guilty or fear of heresy or whatnot. Catholicism really doesn't tolerate that. Millions of Catholic people do because they weigh and ponder and doubt, too, but the official position of the church is to accept what the church says - period! That troubles me. I am troubled by narrow-mindedness in such areas where the truth is so complex. With maybe 100 millions galaxies out there, we need humility. Churches may preach humility but often reflect arrogance.

(2**) Along the same line, Catholicism can seem rather legalistic**. What is mean is that there is only one way, say, to perform a Mass - the same everywhere in every church every Sunday morning. Granted, this has the advantage of conformity, but I rather like the idea that worship patterns aren't set in stone, that you don't have to read specific scriptures every Sunday in every church. I am rather impressed by the notion that there should be latitude for the spirit of God to work. If the pastor feels inspired to speak on a different text, do it. Otherwise this can seem likes a liturgical legalism. Is it all that different from the legalism Pharisees practiced and Christ spoke against?

  I've had to choose between Catholicism and Protestantism with both traditions represented in my heritage. I have leaned toward what some would call liberal (mainline)Protestantism, the sort that appreciates other faiths, that seeks to put the teachings of Christ into practice, that is less concerned with doctrines and liturgy and more with loving God and one another, that is disturbed when too much emphasis is placed upon ancient traditions and even some beliefs that were relevant or believable 2000 years ago but no longer are today, etc. Evangelical Protestantism tends to have the same basic problem as Catholicism. There is only one way and that is their way.

  Personally, I expect to greet plenty of Hindus and Muslims, Jews and Sikhs, yes, animists and perhaps even atheists in heaven. I'm happy to leave that up to God. We are saved by God's grace and not by doctrines, piety or by affiliation with any one faith.

  God bless people of every creed, color, culture and country. Religion should be a bridge and not a barrier. After all, we're all children of the same God.  If Catholicism would 'loosen up' I would find it more attractive. I know that few CAFers will agree with me, but I've shared my sentiment.

 I'm not here to fight, I mean obviously, this thread was meant for friendly conversation. But it would seem that you are mistaken about somethings (but also right about others). The fact is, Catholicism is the one true faith. Hence the name Catholic, meaning "Universal". Would you rather be built on a rock that Jesus appointed (Peter)? Or would you rather base your church on an unstable, unfriendly monk (Martin Luther)? I'm just saying, if you have an open enough mind, you brain will eventually fall out. 
 It's not about how attractive the Catholic Church is, it's about the truth. If you are tired of being told this, I'd encourage you to question the Catholic faith! And, by questioning it, find the answers to your questions, instead of just leaving. Check out books, say the Catechism, or you could go on YouTube (GREAT videos there! Check out TheChurchMillitant's channel). Get informed, and then you can find answers.
 Yes! God bless people of all creed, color, culture, and country! We are children of the same God! Let us hope and pray that each and every one of His children finds and loves Him! May God's Grace (given to us by the Sacraments) be with us all!

God be with you! (Incidently abbreviated today as Good bye)

 

[channal1]

If I was a betting man, I’d bet that I am going to end up in the water as well. The fact that my local church is dying is exclerating my search. But I have a feeling, I would end up there anyway. Cheap Coach PursesCoach outlet storesCoach Factory Outlet store