False Statements regarding the Catholic Church

This section covers topics generally misrepresented by evangelists. The following are false statements often made regarding the Church and Catholic doctrine. This page is still under construction. Please be patient, and check back often.

Catholics Worship Mary: Mary holds a very special place in the hearts of many Catholics. Catholics honor her for her role in salvation as the mother of Jesus. However, Mary is not worshipped by Catholics. Worship is for God alone

Catholics Worship Saints: Again, worship is for God alone. Through the ages, the Church has acknowledged those individuals who most exemplify the Christian life. The saints are those individuals whom best live up to the standard set by Jesus. They are role models and are, like Mary, venerated (that is deeply respected) but not worshipped. For more information on the saints, see the article On Saints and Icons.

Catholics have rewritten the 10 Commandments: There is a minor difference between Protestants and Catholics concerning the numbering of the commandments. However, Catholics do not eliminate any commandment.

Catholics sin by calling priests "father": This common criticism of the Church practice arises from a misreading of a verse in Matthew. In this article, Fr. Mitch Pacwa, SJ, explains how the practice of calling priests "father" is legitimate and biblical.

Catholicism is not based on scripture: Catholicism is based on scripture and on sacred tradition. The idea of tradition is often misinterpreted by Protestant evangelists. Typically speaking, the tradition referred to is the tradition established by the apostles. In most cases, the tradition predates the gospels. (The earliest gospel, Mark, was written about 65 A.D.)

Catholics are going to hell: One of my personal pet peeves. Since God alone will judge the living and the dead (as stated in the Catholic creeds), NO ONE can say for sure whether ANY ONE is going to hell. The Catholic Church teaches that those who die in a state of mortal sin will suffer in hell, but the Church does not decide who dies in that state.

Catholics add requirements for salvation including good works and the sacraments: Protestants often interpret the Catholic Church’s emphasis upon moral correctness and the need for charity as stating that good works are needed for salvation. However, the Church teaches that we are saved by grace alone, but that good works spring from this grace. It is impossible to be "saved," to accept Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and savior, without acting in a morally correct way.

The Catholic Church discriminates against women: This is an ironic statement considering the attack upon the Church for the reverence shown to Mary. In reality, the Church has repeatedly emphasized the importance and equality of women and has canonized many as saints -- the highest honor that the Church can bestow.