A Catholic problem

In the Christian world, Catholicism is unique in its demands for obedience to the Church beyond all other things.  When we went through RCIA, mention of a relationship with Jesus was barely dwelt upon.  But our confession that we would obey the teachings of the Church was hammered in.  Not that any denomination or tradition doesn’t expect some fealty to its particular interpretations and understandings and faith confessions.  But that ‘obey the Church’ just isn’t there.

So we have this little dialogue.  It’s over the issue of usury, something that has long been a thorn in the side of the faith, that we often forget about in our post-enlightenment, capitalistic societies.  Forbidding usury plays a big part in Medieval history.  It’s come back into the forefront in light of the Church’s movement away from capitalism, and starting to warm up to more socialist leaning solutions for economic woes.

Note the final point by Kirt Higdon.  What the Church is saying appears to be change rather than development of teaching.  It also appears to have contradictions.  So be it.  I am called to obey.  However it is worth noting that we shouldn’t impugn the heart and soul of the person who has questions.  But here’s the point.  If obedience is the core of the faith, then when the Church does something like change its teachings, or say things that appear to contradict themselves or reality, you can either do what Kirk did, and just say it doesn’t make sense.  Or you can impugn the character of those who threaten your acceptance of the situation by pointing out the obvious.

The Crusades and the Inquisition.  They are uniquely Catholic for a reason.  Terrible things have been done in the name of any religion or belief system.  But never so clearly defined with such an officially declared seal of approval.  Reread the link for understanding.