I grew up in the Lutheran Church. My mother (thanks be to God) made sure I participated in services until I was on my own. After that, I seldom had a desire to attend Church for about 15 years. Later on, in my military career, I became friends with a non-denominational Christian. On deployments to other countries, we attended services of various denominations, which was fun. Later on, I married my wife who is a Roman Catholic. For a while we attended Baptist services, but my wife was adamant about her Catholicism so, not wanting to confuse or discourage our kids, we attended Catholic services. I grew up in an Italian neighborhood, so I was quite comfortable with Catholics. Today, I still attend Mass with my wife, but technically I'm anathema. I don't believe in Papal Infallibility, especially with the current Pope who is of the Jesuit Order, with a history of socialist leanings. I don't say the rosary, which is supposedly a meditation, but commonly expressed as, "to pray the rosary". The Bible forbids prayer in "useless repitition". I don't believe in purgatory or indulgences. As the Eucharist goes, I see it as a remembrance, a memorial to Christ's work on the cross, but not as a literal presence. Christ's one-time sacrifice long ago was sufficient and we don't need to re-crucify Christ every Sunday. What I do like about the Catholic Church is the liturgical structure, emphasis on family and pro-life stance.
I like the basic concept of Non-Denominationalism and regard my relationship with Christ as personal. Services in Non-Denominational Churches can vary widely, though. Some have great services based on Scripture, missions and outreach programs. Conversely, one I went to had a pastor sitting on a stool just rambling on in circles, followed by a rock band.
I like the basic concept of Non-Denominationalism and regard my relationship with Christ as personal. Services in Non-Denominational Churches can vary widely, though. Some have great services based on Scripture, missions and outreach programs. Conversely, one I went to had a pastor sitting on a stool just rambling on in circles, followed by a rock band.
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