What is the biggest misconception non-Catholics have of Catholicism?

[Tommy999]

This question is addressed to Catholics.

What is the biggest misconception that non-Catholic Christians have of Catholics and Catholicism?

For example, what stereotypes or incorrect assumptions are made of Catholics or Catholicism that are inaccurate or unfair that you wish could be addressed and corrected once and for all?

One inaccurate assumption that comes to mind for me is that I have heard some Protestant Christians refer to Catholicism as a “works-based” religion instead of a “faith-based” one. I have come to realize that is not the case. Sure, works are important in Catholicism but faith plays a big part, too.

 

[SyroMalankara]

Just heard one the other day:
Priests can’t marry. Technically true, but what they mean is Catholics don’t have married clergy which is untrue since married men can be ordained in most of the Eastern Churches, we have married priests in the Latin Church from converts, we have married deacons, and I believe the Latin Church Anglican Ordinariate can allow married men to the diaconate and priesthood.

 

[Tommy999]

Just heard one the other day:
Priests can’t marry. Technically true, but what they mean is Catholics don’t have married clergy which is untrue since married men can be ordained in most of the Eastern Churches, we have married priests in the Latin Church from converts, we have married deacons, and I believe the Latin Church Anglican Ordinariate can allow married men to the diaconate and priesthood.

Thanks for that, SyroMalankara. I was unaware of those distinctions, as well. Thanks for clarifying. I was aware of married priest from converts, but that was about it.

 

[Della]

That we don’t read the Bible or know it. What they really mean is Catholics don’t seem to “know” the verses they think all important. We know them, all right, we simply don’t take them literalistically or read them as if they’re the only verses that matter. Nor do Catholics interpret Scripture for doctrinal purposes–deciding for ourselves what is and what isn’t real Christian teaching and practice. The Bible is a witness to the authority of the Church, not an authority in and of itself. In that, we see the Bible in a very different context, as a part of Sacred Tradition rooted in the OT and continuing into the NT and up until present time. We not only read the Bible, but we know it is God’s written word, and we certainly use it for spiritual growth and guidance.

 

[PJM]

This question is addressed to Catholics.

What is the biggest misconception that non-Catholic Christians have of Catholics and Catholicism?

For example, what stereotypes or incorrect assumptions are made of Catholics or Catholicism that are inaccurate or unfair that you wish could be addressed and corrected once and for all?

One inaccurate assumption that comes to mind for me is that I have heard some Protestant Christians refer to Catholicism as a “works-based” religion instead of a “faith-based” one. I have come to realize that is not the case. Sure, works are important in Catholicism but faith plays a big part, too.

Thanks TOMMY! That is a GREAT question

From experience I think two issues are predominate:

1. that we are LITERALLY “one church”

While we are grateful to share a common belief in the Blessed trinity & a common Christian Baptism; beyond that our differences in understanding of the Bible; faith beliefs; and Worship practices vary significantly…

Being members of the ONE “same-church” implies very incorrectly that we share the SAME faith beliefs. Sadly not true.

1. Relates to right understanding of the bible.

GOD’S right understanding is a gift of Grace and the Holy Spirit. It ought to be evident by acknowledging that

TRUTH has to be singular per defied issue

& the very-many differing sets of faith beliefs & churches in the realms of Protestantism which flows from a at best limited understanding of bible teachings.

2Peter 1: 19-21
And we have the more firm prophetical word: whereunto you do well to attend, as to a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: [20]Understanding this first, that no prophecy [MEANING UNDERSTANDING] of scripture is made by private interpretation. [21] For prophecy came not by the will of man at any time: but the holy men of God spoke, inspired by the Holy Ghost.

[Douay explanation]

[20] No prophecy of scripture is made by private interpretation: This shews plainly that the scriptures are not to be expounded by any one’s private judgment or private spirit, because every part of the holy scriptures were written by men inspired by the Holy Ghost, and declared as such by the Church; therefore they are not to be interpreted but by the Spirit of God, which he hath left, and promised to remain with his Church to guide her in all truth to the end of the world. Some may tell us, that many of our divines interpret the scriptures: they may do so, but they do it always with a submission to the judgment of the Church, and not otherwise.** End Quotes**

“Whenever something is good it does not depend on us getting our way, but on God getting His way, and whether we do God’s Will depends on us [humbly] loving God. Moreover to love God we must [actually] know God, [not just know OF God].”*** Bread of Life booklet January 9, 2016”[Mt 7:21]***

2nd. Peter 3: 14-18
“Therefore, beloved, since you wait for these, be zealous to be found by him without spot or blemish, and at peace. And count the forbearance of our Lord as salvation. So also our beloved brother Paul wrote to you according to the wisdom given him, speaking of this as he does in all his letters. There are some things in them hard to understand, which the ignorant and unstable twist to their own destruction, as they do the other scriptures. You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, beware lest you be carried away with the error of lawless men and lose your own stability. But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen”
.
God Bless you,

Patrick

 

[Tommy999]

That we don’t read the Bible or know it. What they really mean is Catholics don’t seem to “know” the verses they think all important. We know them, all right, we simply don’t take them literalistically or read them as if they’re the only verses that matter. Nor do Catholics interpret Scripture for doctrinal purposes–deciding for ourselves what is and what isn’t real Christian teaching and practice. The Bible is a witness to the authority of the Church, not an authority in and of itself. In that, we see the Bible in a very different context, as a part of Sacred Tradition rooted in the OT and continuing into the NT and up until present time. We not only read the Bible, but we know it is God’s written word, and we certainly use it for spiritual growth and guidance.

Hi Della,
Yes, that is a an unfortunate stereotype. I understand that many of the top Bible scholars in Christendom are Catholic. I also know many Catholics on CAF (like you, PJM, and others) who know their Bible inside and out.

However, in my real world experience, the Catholics I have known growing up and in adulthood – for the most part – are more well-versed in religious ritual and tradition than the Bible. For example, many of the Catholics I have known outside of CAF have more knowledge of which saint to seek out for a certain type of prayer intention or malady than they have knowledge of the most basic Bible stories that many Protestants learn in their childhood and youth.

I realize that everyone’s personal dealings are different and that our mileage may vary, but that has been my experience.

I agree with you that Protestants don’t have the rich tradition to fall back on that Catholics do so they tend to focus more on the Bible and their pastors for guidance whereas Catholics have both the Bible *and * tradition to fall back on, so Catholics must learn both, so it’s kind of like comparing apples and oranges to a certain degree.

 

[Cone]

This question is addressed to Catholics.

What is the biggest misconception that non-Catholic Christians have of Catholics and Catholicism?

For example, what stereotypes or incorrect assumptions are made of Catholics or Catholicism that are inaccurate or unfair that you wish could be addressed and corrected once and for all?

One inaccurate assumption that comes to mind for me is that I have heard some Protestant Christians refer to Catholicism as a “works-based” religion instead of a “faith-based” one. I have come to realize that is not the case. Sure, works are important in Catholicism but faith plays a big part, too.

Great question. One of the biggest misconceptions is that the Church “makes up” dogma. The fundamental teachings of the Church have their roots in Scripture.

 

[Della]

Hi Della,
Yes, that is a an unfortunate stereotype. I understand that many of the top Bible scholars in Christendom are Catholic. I also know many Catholics on CAF (like you, PJM, and others) who know their Bible inside and out.

However, in my real world experience, the Catholics I have known growing up and in adulthood – for the most part – are more well-versed in religious ritual and tradition than the Bible. For example, many of the Catholics I have known outside of CAF have more knowledge of which saint to seek out for a certain type of prayer intention or malady than they have knowledge of the most basic Bible stories that many Protestants learn in their childhood and youth.

I realize that everyone’s personal dealings are different and that our mileage may vary, but that has been my experience.

I agree with you that Protestants don’t have the rich tradition to fall back on that Catholics do so they tend to focus more on the Bible and their pastors for guidance whereas Catholics have both the Bible *and * tradition to fall back on, so Catholics must learn both, so it’s kind of like comparing apples and oranges to a certain degree.

More and more Catholics are reading Scripture and learning about it these days, thanks be. My dh and I are leading a class on basic Church teachings that draw directly from Scripture. One of our lessons focuses on the Bible itself. Things are looking up in that way.

Still, for many knowing the Bible intimately really isn’t necessary. I don’t say that because I don’t think people should read the Bible or be familiar with it’s larger themes/stories, but because salvation is not about what we know but about drawing on/using the graces God gives us, since the redemption of the world was accomplished in Christ. So, even the smallest child, the retarded, those who cannot grasp as much as others or who have no opportunity to read a Bible can have a faith that is just as full as the greatest Bible scholar and sometimes greater. The Bible holds a prominent place in worship and daily following Christ, but it is but one component of Sacred Tradition, which is not of man but of God.

 

[boomerang]

The worst false belief is that Catholics aren’t Christian and aren’t saved; that it is a pagan religion invented by Emperor Constantine. Now, THAT is ignorant. Everything else is small potatoes compared to that one.

 

[PJM]

Hi Della,
Yes, that is a an unfortunate stereotype. I understand that many of the top Bible scholars in Christendom are Catholic. I also know many Catholics on CAF (like you, PJM, and others) who know their Bible inside and out.

However, in my real world experience, the Catholics I have known growing up and in adulthood – for the most part – are more well-versed in religious ritual and tradition than the Bible. For example, many of the Catholics I have known outside of CAF have more knowledge of which saint to seek out for a certain type of prayer intention or malady than they have knowledge of the most basic Bible stories that many Protestants learn in their childhood and youth.

I realize that everyone’s personal dealings are different and that our mileage may vary, but that has been my experience.

I agree with you that Protestants don’t have the rich tradition to fall back on that Catholics do so they tend to focus more on the Bible and their pastors for guidance whereas Catholics have both the Bible *and * tradition to fall back on, so Catholics must learn both, so it’s kind of like comparing apples and oranges to a certain degree.

That’s a GREAT point Tommy.

It can be blamed on OLD Sacred Tradition

Prior to the reformation; it was the position of the RCC that laity [in total] ought not read the bible themselves; based on the two Peter passages I quoted in my last post here.

2nd Peter 1: 19-21
2nd. Peter 3: 14-18

Which make to salient points:

[1] There is danger is the untrained reading & THEN interpreting bible passages W/O the provable influence of the Holy Spirit

[2] Augmenting this fact is the warning that Peter issues to ALL regarding Paul’s writings; which as Peter points out have some “difficult to understand” teachings that can [do a& have done] led some folks astray.

This position was a long held tradition that in retrospect seems to have had GREAT merit.

Even today Catholics are taught basically: If you proceed on your own; you do so at risk.

The bible is not a novel, not a history book and has a proliferation of VERY profound teachings: THEREFORE if one’s understanding does not fully align with what the CC teaches: CHANGE IT. [Truth being singular]

The wisdom of the Early Fathers position seems to have been validated.

The abundance of Protestant church’s; each having their own version of just what “such & such” ACTUALLY MEANS & of course everyone beliefs themselves to be the the bearer of the necessarily singular truths per defined issue.]

And it is this very evident short-coming of “do-it -your-selfers” that has led, more than any other factor to the proliferation of churches & differing beliefs.

The RCC is more recent time s now commonly has a priest-led [or Deacon] Bible study which is slowly making improvements in Catholic Bible literacy.

Of NOTE though is that for those of us Blessed to attend daily Mass; in the course of our 3 year cycle are exposed to the entire TEACHINGS of the Bible. Of course the priest ability to communicate it varies a bit:shrug:] but even then the HS is there to guide us.

There is MUCH to be said about what the CC has done and continues to do IMO

God Bless you,
Patrick

 

[meltzerboy]

This question is addressed to Catholics.

What is the biggest misconception that non-Catholic Christians have of Catholics and Catholicism?

For example, what stereotypes or incorrect assumptions are made of Catholics or Catholicism that are inaccurate or unfair that you wish could be addressed and corrected once and for all?

One inaccurate assumption that comes to mind for me is that I have heard some Protestant Christians refer to Catholicism as a “works-based” religion instead of a “faith-based” one. I have come to realize that is not the case. Sure, works are important in Catholicism but faith plays a big part, too.

Maybe not the biggest misconception, but one I have observed among Protestants, is that Catholics pray directly to saints for help, rather than as intercessors to G-d. I think some Catholics are confused about this as well.

 

[Convert1]

Being a convert with loads of Baptist family members, I am constantly accused of “worshipping Mary” and by praying to Saints, I am “worshipping idols”.

I explain time and time again the role of the Holy Mother as our protector who intervenes for us in our time of need. I also explain that we honor her, for without her consent there would not have been an immaculate conception as we know it. Still, I constantly hear these statements, and I have somewhat just given up trying to reason with them.

The lack of “Bible based teaching” is another one, but I can argue that the Catholic Mass entails three (sometimes more) readings from scripture as a basis for our message each week. Most of them don’t know that because they have never been.

 

[johnnyc176]

Hi Della,
Yes, that is a an unfortunate stereotype. I understand that many of the top Bible scholars in Christendom are Catholic. I also know many Catholics on CAF (like you, PJM, and others) who know their Bible inside and out.

However, in my real world experience, the Catholics I have known growing up and in adulthood – for the most part – are more well-versed in religious ritual and tradition than the Bible. For example, many of the Catholics I have known outside of CAF have more knowledge of which saint to seek out for a certain type of prayer intention or malady than they have knowledge of the most basic Bible stories that many Protestants learn in their childhood and youth.

I realize that everyone’s personal dealings are different and that our mileage may vary, but that has been my experience.

So what is the reason for this thread? To put down Catholics? You would do well to look to those who have won the race for guidance and prayer.

Give me a Catholic who follows Christ’s command to go to Mass and who seeks guidance and prayer from our Blessed Mother and the saints over a protestant’s ‘knowledge’ of Scripture any day. You can memorize the books of the Bible from cover to cover, rattle off verses at the drop of a dime…so what…doesn’t mean much if you are getting God’s Word wrong.

I agree with you that Protestants don’t have the rich tradition to fall back on that Catholics do so they tend to focus more on the Bible and their pastors for guidance whereas Catholics have both the Bible *and * tradition to fall back on, so Catholics must learn both, so it’s kind of like comparing apples and oranges to a certain degree.

We don’t have to ‘learn’ the Bible. Christianity is not a religion of the book. It is a religion of the Word of God which comes to us through Sacred Scripture, Sacred Tradition and the teaching authority of the Catholic Church. The Catholic Church was founded by Christ before the canon of Scripture was given to us by that same Church. It is the Catholic Church that is the pillar and foundation of Truth.

As far as tradition… protestants follow tradition also. That is the only way you could read John 6 and not see the Eucharist.

 

[Della]

Maybe not the biggest misconception, but one I have observed among Protestants, is that Catholics pray directly to saints for help, rather than as intercessors to G-d. I think some Catholics are confused about this as well.

We invoke them directly by name, but as intercessors whose prayers have power with God since they are perfected in his love and his will as they dwell with him in heaven.

 

[meltzerboy]

So what is the reason for this thread? To put down Catholics? You would do well to look to those who have won the race for guidance and prayer.

Give me a Catholic who follows Christ’s command to go to Mass and who seeks guidance and prayer from our Blessed Mother and the saints over a protestant’s ‘knowledge’ of Scripture any day. You can memorize the books of the Bible from cover to cover, rattle off verses at the drop of a dime…so what…doesn’t mean much if you are getting God’s Word wrong.

We don’t have to ‘learn’ the Bible. Christianity is not a religion of the book. It is a religion of the Word of God which comes to us through Sacred Scripture, Sacred Tradition and the teaching authority of the Catholic Church. The Catholic Church was founded by Christ before the canon of Scripture was given to us by that same Church. It is the Catholic Church that is the pillar and foundation of Truth.

As far as tradition… protestants follow tradition also. That is the only way you could read John 6 and not see the Eucharist.

If you were familiar with Tommy’s other posts, you would realize that he is seeking knowledge and not in the least motivated by putting down Catholics.

 

[Della]

If you were familiar with Tommy’s other posts, you would realize that he is seeking knowledge and not in the least motivated by putting down Catholics.

Thank you, meltzerboy. I’m glad you were the first to say it–I’m backing you up on this.

 

[meltzerboy]

We invoke them directly by name, but as intercessors whose prayers have power with God since they are perfected in his love and his will as they dwell with him in heaven.

Thank you, Della, for clarifying that.

 

[FollowChrist34]

This question is addressed to Catholics.

What is the biggest misconception that non-Catholic Christians have of Catholics and Catholicism?

For example, what stereotypes or incorrect assumptions are made of Catholics or Catholicism that are inaccurate or unfair that you wish could be addressed and corrected once and for all?

One inaccurate assumption that comes to mind for me is that I have heard some Protestant Christians refer to Catholicism as a “works-based” religion instead of a “faith-based” one. I have come to realize that is not the case. Sure, works are important in Catholicism but faith plays a big part, too.

1. Saved by works (as you note). Unfortunately there are Catholics who do seem to believe this; they come in two varieties. (1) Works in the sense of fulfilling religious works / practice to the hilt; little else. (2) Works in the sense of social justice warriors; adherence to doctrine is for Pharisees…

Catholics do, of course, believe that one is saved by faith and works, more or less what Lutherans and I suspect most Protestants believe. (in the sense that works flow from faith; true faith inevitably leads to witness of Christ in deed as well as word)

1. Catholics’ worship focuses on Mary, saints as much as / more than Jesus. Or a more refined form, Catholics worship the Pope, the Church more than Jesus, Scripture. Again, you see this from time to time in Catholics, so there is good reason for the misunderstanding.
2. Gay lobby - this one I suspect is also true to a certain extent, but it really bothers me. It is unfair to the Church, clergy, as a whole. The proposed solution is always: let priests marry. (not necessarily opposed to that btw) The stereotyping is what makes me uncomfortable.

 

[pianistclare]

OH man, where to begin?
That we worship Mary
That we have no clue about the Bible
That we just make up stuff
That we are repressed sex fiends
That we hate women
That if you were raised Catholic you’re really screwed up in the head.
That our Church is the whore of Babylon.

Shall I go on?

 

[RCbkr]

Not exactly the biggest misconception, but a quote from my Southern Baptist sister-in-law: “Catholics aren’t even Christian. They go to church on Sunday and live like the devil during the week.” Needless to say, we have agreed to disagree, and not discuss matters of religion, and we get along famously. She’s a wonderful person who lives her faith, and I like to think she can see the faith in my life as well.