Catholics: What does The Church teach about other religions?

Question

(I guess this is a Vatican II question?)

Curious what the Church teachings are about how Catholics should view Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, etc..

(side question: given that I know so many wonderful Jewish and Muslim people, is it possible for me to convert to Catholicism (which I'm contemplating), if I admire and respect these faiths so much?)

Thank you in advance for your insight and ideas.

Answer 1

+ Non-Catholic Christian Churches +

The Catechism of the Catholic Church states, "Furthermore, many elements of sanctification and of truth" are found outside the visible confines of the Catholic Church: "the written Word of God; the life of grace; faith, hope, and charity, with the other interior gifts of the Holy Spirit, as well as visible elements."

Christ's Spirit uses these Churches and ecclesial communities as means of salvation.

All these blessings come from Christ and lead to him.

+ Judaism +

The Catholic Church teaches: When she delves into her own mystery, the Church, the People of God in the New Covenant, discovers her link with the Jewish People, "the first to hear the Word of God.

The Jewish faith, unlike other non-Christian religions, is already a response to God's revelation in the Old Covenant.

To the Jews "belong the sonship, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the worship, and the promises; to them belong the patriarchs, and of their race, according to the flesh, is the Christ"; "for the gifts and the call of God are irrevocable."

+ Islam +

The Catechism of the Catholic Church states, "The plan of salvation also includes those who acknowledge the Creator, in the first place amongst whom are the Muslims; these profess to hold the faith of Abraham, and together with us they adore the one, merciful God, mankind's judge on the last day."

+ Other non-Christian religions +

All nations form but one community. This is so because all stem from the one stock which God created to people the entire earth, and also because all share a common destiny, namely God. His providence, evident goodness, and saving designs extend to all against the day when the elect are gathered together in the holy city.

+ With love in Christ.

Answer 2

Ya, catholics are advised to appreciate different religions and to speak with different Christians approximately what makes them the equal and one-of-a-kind. Catholics consider that different denominations will also be stored, however handiest via the grace of God gift within the Church. They additionally consider that the Church has the whole lot wanted for salvation and not anything disregarded. Fathers of Vatican Council II concentrate all that's wanted for salvation: -proper and whole guideline in religion -complete sacramental lifetime of all 7 sacraments - ordained ministry that follows in direct succession from the Apostles

Answer 3

I suggest you read paragraphs 839 to 843 of the Catholic Catechism. Basically it says that since Catholics, Jews, and Muslims, as well all other Christian religions, all worship the same God, the Catholic Church "considers all goodness and truth found in these religions as 'a preparation for the Gospel and given by him who enlightens all men that they may at length have life."

Here are the paragraphs. Hope this helps.

Answer 4

I am not catholic, never have been, never will be. Having a personal relationship with Christ is what is important, not which church you belong to. If you are more into 'works' and praying to dead people (saints & Mary), then go for catholocism, otherwise, follow Jesus and His teachings! Pray earnestly before making this decision, I pray your decision is for Christ!

Answer 5

Why do you people always have to convert to some kind of formed religion ,Havent you ever heard of a personel relationship with Jesus Christ ,Ask him into your Heart and he will show you the right way Home !

Answer 6

they never teach bout hating them.. actualy we still consider the jews "FRIENDS".. cuz christ taught us how to love