To non-Catholics: What do you LIKE about the Catholic Church?

Question

Don't tell me what you hate about it. Just tell me what kinds of things you think the Catholic Church has done or is doing right.

Answer 1

I appreciate the humanitarian efforts that the church puts forth, so much of it unrecognized by the world in general. My first child was born in a Catholic hospital, and if it wasn't for the kindness of the staff there I don't know where I would have given birth, I was alone and scared, but they provided my with my prenatal care and delivered a fine, healthy baby boy. Mother Theresa was a shining example of how Catholics go into some of the most depressing parts of the world and bring hope to people who have lost hope.

Answer 2

Nothing. And over 70% of American Catholics would agree.

I am trouble by the use of the term "LIKE" because "like" is not a term I would associate with belief. I am also trouble by the term Catholic Church that is head by the pope, that has a hierarchical structure that administers sacraments (works in Lutheran terms), and that has a completely codified dogma that states that there is more to God's word than the bible.

The political agenda by the American Catholic Church (I assume you were discussing this branch) is similar to the Right Wing that denies subjective morality on a number of issues, women priests, woman's right to choose, etc.

I could go on, but where did Paul's statement on the believers' freedom (1 Cor 10:23-24 with emphasis on 24) get tossed, and the sermons presented in mass (in the building or on TV) no longer reflect the good news.

So what is there to like? The art and architecture in the building of expensive churches (say in Los Angeles?) while the homeless and the hungry are ignored. Before you ask what others would like, try figuring out what you really don't like and see if you can correct it within the Catholic church. Luther couldn't.

Answer 3

First I'm not Catholic so I qualify to answer your question..and I'm a Christian. 2nd, probably 1/2 my friends are Catholic..I attend a non-denominational Church, out of the 8000 who got there about 50% are x-Catholics. I never say anything negative because I see them as my brother & sisters in Christ 100% PERIOD. However they (the X-Catholics) are always bashing the Catholic Church..I hear them say all the time "I'm a recovering Catholic" and I'm telling you I don't have a clue what they are saying or talking about. What I like about the Catholic Church 1. The spead of the gospel everywhere. 2. Church history 3.They are great friends and are tons of fun..really!

Hope this helps!

Answer 4

Well, being a pagan, I get a little antsy whenever I must be inside a Catholic church. I can't help but think about what happened at the hands of Pope Gregore - the father of the Inquisition. But...having said that...

I once witnessed a true Mass. Instead of the priest going through the motions, this particular priest was the real deal. I saw the Pentecost descend - light and fire - into the host and wine. It was remarkable to see. Unfortunately, few besides myself saw it.

Answer 5

The Catholic church, like all churches, has done many things to help people, give them hope, and to encourage them people to live their lives in a good way in relation to each other. The world would be worse if religions did not exist.

Answer 6

I LOVE the way the catholic church has opened it vaults and sold off billions of dollars worth of art work so that they could feed the hungry and basically give it to the poor instead of just making the Cult grow as in the past. The Garb of the pope alone must have fetched millions!

Answer 7

I like the concept of confessions. I believe that this is Biblical and that Protestants should not have thrown this out, even though at the time they were somewhat justified. I also enjoyed the efforts of JP II, especially in his work at reconciliation with the Protestant concept of salvation by grace through faith.
Perhaps the most important event of the 20th century, even beyond the establishment of the Israeli state was the apparitions of Mary at Fatima in 1917. When one follows the outcome of the secrets, one is almost forced to believe that this is entirely Biblical, especially with the RC church's refusal to consecrate Russia in 1960's. Malachi Martin wrote extensively on the issue. he also wrote a stunning book on exorcism called Hostage to the Devil. I wish protestants recognized more of this also.
By the way, St Malachy (no relation to Martin) wrote that our present pope is the next to the last and that the last one will be aligned with the Antichrist. That seems to be right on track with the rest of what is happening. I pray that we all belong to Christ's one and only true church.

Answer 8

When I was a very active member of the Catholic church, I found that the sense of family was what I liked most. Being 2000 miles away from grandparents, etc., it filled a gap for my family and I. Going to Sunday mass offered a sense of rhythm and renewal for the upcoming week.

Answer 9

I'm not a Catholic, but I've had some wonderful devotional times in the Catholic Church. I like the reverence of the communion time. I like the kneeling down. I like the holy water that they had. I like making the cross over me with my hand. I like those things becuase it's faith and action working together. If I am reverent then kneeling down should be an act that should follow my heart. If my heart isn't there, then the kneeling down is a reminder of what my heart should be like.

Answer 10

Well, the art is great - some of the greatest works of art have been made for the Catholic Church.

Also, I really like the churches that make an effort to help the community. So there's that.