MARIOLOGY A BARRIER
Let me risk sharp rebuttal and mention that it is stories like Fatima that keep many people who admire much about Catholicism from embracing that faith. We appreciate the great work the Chuirch does among the poor, its medical facilities, its dedicated clergy and religious, etc. But to have to believe the apparations of Mary, for example, is simply too much. Millions of us need a compassionate religion focusing on the mystery and majesty of God and the importance of faith in our lives, but are unable - in good conscience - ro accept the various ‘myths’ that still seem to remain so central to Catholicism. We need a rational religion that is not filled with miracles which are at odds with our reason. .
Sorry, but that’s a reality. Until both Catholicism and evangelical Protestantism understand that we are no longer in a medieval world filled with superstition many of us will remain big tent believers, certainly tolerant of others, but unable to go along with their beliefs. We work hard at balancing our deep faith with reason and reasonableness.
Pew research recently noted that for every one who becomes a Catholic in the USA four leave Catholicism, and without the Hispanic immigration, mainly illegal, the Church would be losing large numbers. This ought to waken the Vatican and others up to the crisis Christianity faces.
God bless the whole world - no exceptions. Peace.
My dear friend
General Comments
To speak against Mary shows one has or is lost ./ losing the faith.
Millions of muslims have converted to christianity in recent yrs.
Many millions of Africans have too.
16,500 / day of Chinese are.
And more. Many to catholicism.
I would not feel the same about my faith without a Mother. Millions are the same. I think this scripture quote sums up how we are to be when it comes to our faith. We are stupid, unintelligent, insignificant, useless specks of dirt but we often feel we are the opposite to this ( a general comment - not directed solely at anyone )-
Matt.18
1] At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”
2] And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them,
3] and said, "Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
4] Whoever humbles himself like this child, he is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
5] "Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me;
God bless you
John
