Not Real Churches? What Makes a Church True, I Wonder...

So, Pope Benedict has reconfirmed the position of the Catholic Church (apparently first stated in 2000) that all other churches aren't "true" churches. How interesting. I wonder, what is the arbitration body that determines whether a church is true or not? Clearly, the Catholic Church is trying to set itself up in that role. But, it seems to me it's a backwards move for them. In the article, it stated that as the other churches did not have apostolic succession, they aren't true churches and, as such, don't have the "means of salvation." Now, I'm no theologian, but isn't CHRIST the means of salvation for Christians? You know, I'm pretty sure on this point. In fact, I'm certain. The whole point of Christianity is that Christ established himself as the offering, the sacrifice that made man whole with God. So, He is the Way. But, that doesn't lend itself to the business of proclaiming yourself as the intermediary for your parishioners. I also seem to recall that this attitude in the past led to such abuses that the Catholic Church underwent a schism and reformation (creating more un-true churches, I suppose). One step forward, three steps back. And, one final thought, I know that there are a number of churches that claim apostolic succession just as the Catholic church does. So, the argument here, on Benedict's behalf, seems forced and grasping. I do find the idea that the Catholics want to be the only "true" church rather funny.

Not being Catholic, what the Pope says really doesn't affect me. But after his unconscionable words about the Islam and now this, I do wonder if his aim is to alienate everyone on earth. Maybe next he'll start in on Judaism, Buddhism, and the other faith beliefs out there. So much for spreading the Good News, let's just all start claiming that the other's churches aren't "true" churches. That'll improve Christ's cause amongst those who are seeking. Because, after all, Christ created a church on earth so that they could worry about HOW people are coming to know him rather than WHETHER they are, right? In my very humble opinion, I'd recommend that all Christians everywhere spend less time worrying about other Christians and more time spreading the Good News to those who have yet to hear it. So, enough for my first ever truly religious post.

Happy Name Calling!