what is the difference between Lutheranism and Catholicism?

Answer 1

Lutherans follow many of the same doctrines, go through catechism, etc. But I think the main difference is that Lutherans don't believe that saints can help you. We believe that only God can, and God is the only one they pray to. We believe it is idolotry to pray to saints.

Also, Lutherans don't believe in showing the crucifix (dead body of Jesus) on the cross. We believe He is already risen, and we should not depict Him as still hanging there.

We also have a damn fine Oktoberfest :-)

Answer 2

"What separates us as believers in Christ is much less than what unites us." (Pope John XXIII)

Almost all important doctrine is completely agreed upon between Catholic Christians and other Christians.

Here is the joint declaration of justification by Catholics (1999), Lutherans (1999), and Methodists (2006):

By grace alone, in faith in Christ's saving work and not because of any merit on our part, we are accepted by God and receive the Holy Spirit, who renews our hearts while equipping us and calling us to good works.

http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/chrstuni/documents/rc_pc_chrstuni_doc_31101999_cath-luth-joint-declaration_en.html

There are many minor doctrine issues and some major cultural traditional differences which, I believe, do not matter that much.

A Catholic worships and follows Christ in the tradition of Catholicism which, among other things, recognizes that Christ made Peter the leader of His new Church and Pope Benedict XVI is Peter's direct successor.

For more information, see the Catechism of the Catholic Church: http://www.usccb.org/catechism/text/index.htm

With love in Christ.

Answer 3

They both believe the Three Creeds (Nicene, Apostle's and Athanasian) so they are both solidly Christian.

Lutherans believe in "Bible Alone" for doctrine, Roman Catholics use Tradition as well.

They have slightly different ways of looking at the Holy Eucharist...Roman Catholics believe in "transubstantiation" and Lutherans believe in "consubstantiation".

Answer 4

Idols. Saints. Dogma. Bible