The Catholic Church has been around for ages, filled with stories, teachings, and diverse traditions. But, you know how it is with old stories – sometimes they get a little twisted along the way. Some of our Protestant friends have heard things about the Church that aren’t quite right. Now, not every Protestant thinks this way, but for the sake of clearing the air and having good, neighborly chats about faith, let’s look at 17 myths about the Catholic Church that have been making the rounds.
“Catholics Worship Mary and Saints”
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Catholics distinguish between latria (worship given to God) and dulia (veneration given to saints). Mary receives a special veneration called hyperdulia, but it’s not worship. Catholics view Mary and saints as role models and ask them to intercede on their behalf.
“The Pope is Infallible in All Matters”
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The doctrine of papal infallibility, as defined at the First Vatican Council in 1870, is narrowly applied. Most papal teachings and opinions don’t carry this infallible status.
“Catholics Believe in Works-Based Salvation”
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The Council of Trent in the 16th century clarified that salvation comes from God’s grace. Good works are seen as the fruit of that grace, not its source.
“Catholics Added Books to the Bible”
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The Catholic Bible’s additional books, like Tobit and Wisdom, were accepted by early Christians. These were later excluded by Martin Luther during the Protestant Reformation for various reasons.
“Catholics Can’t Read the Bible”
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This myth stems from the Church’s historic opposition to unapproved translations. In truth, the Church encourages scripture study, and Catholics worldwide participate in Bible study groups.
“The Eucharist is Just Symbolic”
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Rooted in the Last Supper and Jesus’ words, Catholics believe that the Eucharist becomes Christ’s real presence, a mystery called the Real Presence.
“Confession to a Priest is Unnecessary”
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John 20:23, where Jesus grants the apostles the authority to forgive sins, is a foundational scripture for this sacrament. Confession is seen as a personal encounter with God’s mercy.
“Catholics Aren’t Christians”
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A major misunderstanding. Catholicism falls under the Christian umbrella, adhering to the Nicene Creed and recognizing Jesus as the Savior.
“Catholics Oppose All Modern Science”
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The Vatican has its own observatory, and Catholic universities worldwide engage in scientific research. The Church views faith and science as complementary.
“Catholics Must Follow Every Papal Statement”
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Catholics recognize the difference between the Pope’s personal reflections and ex cathedra teachings. The latter are rare and usually pertain to faith and morals.
“Purgatory is a ‘Second Chance’ at Salvation”
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Purgatory is a state of purification, ensuring souls are completely pure before entering heaven. Those in purgatory are already assured of salvation.
“The Catholic Church Suppressed the ‘Lost Gospels’”
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Early Church councils discerned the canonical scriptures based on apostolic origin and theological consistency. Texts like the Gospel of Thomas didn’t meet these criteria.
“Catholicism is All About Guilt”
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While sin and reconciliation are themes, the Church emphasizes God’s boundless mercy, especially in sacraments like the Eucharist and Reconciliation.
“Indulgences ‘Buy’ Salvation”
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Historically misused, indulgences are about spiritual growth. They don’t absolve sin but reduce temporal punishment (like penance).
“The Crusades Represent Catholic Teachings”
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The Crusades, though endorsed by some popes, are complex historical events with political, social, and economic facets. They’re not reflective of the Gospel’s core teachings.
“Catholics Don’t Have a Personal Relationship with Jesus”
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Through the sacraments, prayer, and personal devotion, Catholics seek an intimate relationship with Jesus, often viewing the Eucharist as the pinnacle of this relationship.
“Catholic Tradition Overrides the Bible”
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Both Tradition and Scripture emanate from God’s revelation. They coexist harmoniously, with Tradition often illuminating Scripture.
“Catholics Pray ‘To’ Saints Instead of God”
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Catholics believe that saints, being in heaven, are closer to God. They ask saints to intercede or pray on their behalf, much like one might ask a friend to pray for them. It’s not a replacement for prayer to God but an addition.
“Catholics Are Bound by Old, Outdated Rules”
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While the Catholic Church values tradition, it also engages with modern issues. The Church periodically holds councils, like Vatican II in the 1960s, to address contemporary matters and guide the faithful in a changing world.
“Catholics Ignore the Old Testament”
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The Old Testament forms an essential part of Catholic liturgy and belief. Each Mass includes readings from the Old Testament, and its teachings inform Catholic doctrine and moral teachings.
“Being Catholic Means Blindly Following Church Authorities”
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Like all Christians, Catholics are encouraged to develop a personal relationship with God and to seek understanding in their faith. The Magisterium, or teaching authority of the Church, provides guidance, but individual conscience and discernment are also essential aspects of Catholic belief.
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