Hi, Seafarer. You wanna debate? You got one! Protestants were needed to challenge the authority of an early church with no moral backbone. Catholics believe that salvation is obtained through the historic church, while Protestants believe that salvation is obtained through the Word of the Bible and, more specifically, a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
Both are right. Catholics are correct in showing the need of a unified church. Many of the early Popes and church authorities did not appear to have had a true and strong relationship with the living God as did the early Protestant reformers. I personally know of a few people whom I respect as being "in tune" and spiritually communing with God who are of both persuasions. There are arguments from both sides about who is right and who is wrong. Peter Kreeft is a great apologist from the Roman Catholic side, while Norman Geisler is an advocate of the Protestant viewpoint. Google either of them if you want some meat.
Christmas adherants may have thrown the baby out, however, when they turned a quaint holiday into a 2 month infomercial.
As far as daily masses, we can and should spend some quiet time each day praying to God. Why need it be ritualistically organized?
Merry Christmas to all at EVC!
This message has been edited by Phatboy, 12-23-2004 05:07 AM
™ Version 4.2