Re: Catholicism - a few questions. (Honest! No cheaps shots or nothing.)

Thanks so much for your reply, as norxgirl says it is so much better talking to someone about it!

Your reply was very challenging to me and my current understanding of certain issues.

I was particularly confounded by the John 19:27 passage - I don't know how to explain this with my current understanding of the scripture. I'm only speculating - perhaps Jesus is actually emphasising the Disciples are his brothers, as opposed to Mary being a mother-figure. but that still doesn't explain the last sentence. You've got me thinking...!

But nonetheless I am still struggling to understand how praying to someone isn't worshiping them as a potentiary of divine action; if that's what your saying!! I may misunderstand!
How I interpreted your reply was that Catholics pray to Mary/Saints in order to actuate a prayer they wish to be answered, or to further enhance the power/'divine volume' of the prayer by covering all bases. I always understood this to be Jesus' job exlucively. Isn't claiming Mary has an influence on the outcome of earthy action holding her in divine esteem? How come Jesus never told us to pray to anyone else other than himself? Sorry if I'm being annoying! I'm just a bit confused!!!

Another thing that interested me was the Saint/saint division you mentioned. What are the differences between a Saint and a saint. Does Jesus acknowledge this difference? Is it like the apostle/disciple distinction? Equal worth different responsibility?

Thanks again for your reply! This is really challenging for me and I can feel it helping me grow as a Christian! I also really appreciate you actually answering me; (unlike 'some' forum members!) and discussing your beliefs so openly and shamelessly - it's actually quite inspiring!

Cheers