dude.
HIGH FIVE!
you've just been kissed.
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Trapper said: "you know, most christians, including the protestants, are catholic. there is really no difference between the two when it gets down to it. the catholics are, in my estimation, a bit more open and honest about their practices and attitudes than protestants. therefor, the catholic church has more outward manifestation of their beliefs and practices so its easier to see where they are at.
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There is no compromise with the basics of RCC principles, doctrines or beliefs. Catholic beliefs are simply non-negotiable.
So, yes, I agree with you: the RCC has more outward manifestation of their beliefs and practices.
AND the "protesting" churches of this world aren't protesting at all. Whether they realize it or not, they fully acknowledge and embrace the authority of the Pope and the church of Rome by taking for granted countless RC doctrines and beliefs ... because, most (if not all) of the beliefs and doctrines held dear to the heart of "Protestant" churches come directly from the church of Rome!
(Boy, they really "protested" didn't they? Makes me giggle.)
The original "christians" still observed the Sabbath and Holy days ... albeit, in secret because of Roman persecution ... but, anyway, when Constantine finally embraced the Christians he adapted them into his own beliefs/perceptions.
For instance, he still wanted to worship his sun ... so the Sabbath became Sunday (not Son's Day) ... yada yada yada
Oh! And another obvious one: Christmas ... observed by all Protestant's around the world ... i.e. Christ's Mass ... the Mass of Christ .... but! Let's carry on the ancient festivities of Saturnalia at the same time! Double joy!
I could go on and on ... literally.
But, anyway, the "protestant" churches today ALL recognize the authority of the Pope and the RCC each and every Sunday morning ... and while observing every single “Christian holiday” ... none of which are ever mentioned in the Bible!
They HATE to hear that. When it's the historical truth.
I find that curiously odd. I just love history. It is so fascinating.
Now if I could just make heads & tails out of it all ... but I'm working on it.
I'm so glad I popped in here. I've really enjoyed visiting with y'all. Thanks for tolerating my interruptions. :)