And that's the second reason I'm a Catholic. I love the truth and, in the doctrines of the Church, I see the word of God reflected as in a mirror. the Catholic Church doesn't bend to fashion. Her doctrines, especially the hard ones, don't change with the weather. She teaches the truth in season and out of season.
The third reason I'm a Catholic is her heritage of love. The Church throughout the centuries has provided for the poor, the sick, the lonely, the handicapped, the children. The institutions founded and supported by the Church serve more people and have had more impact on the world than any other religion. She truly is one, holy, catholic, and apostolic. Evil men and women sometimes pervert her institutions, but the principles behind them remain true, and many have lain down their lives for those they serve.
So no matter how many posts I write about the scandals in the Church, I cling to her as a faithful daughter. When I speak out against scandal it isn't to tear her down, but to act like the surgeon who picks up the knife, not to kill the patient, but to cut out the infection. I pray and long for a purified Catholic Church that draws men and women all over the world into her arms, because they 'see how these Christians love one another.'
The greatest love in the Church is Christ Himself who comes to us in the Eucharist. I could not live without the daily bread that strengthens us in this wicked world. The Eucharist and Confession, the sacraments of daily life, are as necessary as food, clothing, and shelter.
Authority, truth, love, and the sacraments -- all good reasons to be Catholic.
Ann Roche Muggeridge, daughter-in-law of Malcolm Muggeridge, is a Canadian Catholic who was frustrated to death with the state of the Church in the north. She once vented to a friend that she felt like leaving. His response? 'Don't let the bastards drive you out!' So I invite my Anglican friends and others considering becoming Catholics, 'Don't let the bastards keep you out.' Recognize the difficulties and challenges that we are facing in the Church and come join the fight where it really matters -- at the heart of the Catholic Church."
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3 comments:
Sometimes I wish you all had a "like" button like Facebook. ;-)
I agree, Barbara. When I bounce back-n-forth, sometimes I want only to make a quick affirmation.
she is still the one Church most hated and reviled
I've had this question for some time: which is it, does the Truth repel or attract mankind? I suppose it depends on who. But we just seem to want it both ways. And not just us Catholics.
All Christians consider themselves legitimate when "the world hates you."
So, anyway, which is it? Do we get along "peaceably with all men" or are we the cause of strife?
This is a phenomenal article, 'specially considering this depressing mood I've been in on my end.
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