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Aww, I just sent a question in on a different link, I must've JUST MISSED this blog being posted...First, a big THANK YOU to you, Hooty, for putting this together, I can't thank you enough...Secondly, I'm wondering if it is okay/appropriate for me to bring my kids to this class, they are ages 6, 9 and 11. I was a practicing catholic until 2 yrs ago when I started coming to the Creek and have since "seen the light" on the subject and completely agree with the views of the Creek. HOWEVER, my kids currently attend catholic catechism because my ex insists so (long story), and I would LOVE for them to hear firsthand how the two sides stack up. I am confident they would not be disruptive to others or a distraction. Thanks in advance for your thoughts!

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Hi Christy. Congrats on being the first respondent to my blog. Stop by and get a free soda on me in the lobby this weekend (oh, wait! They're free anyway!)
Yeah, I'm geeked about the class. I'm going to find it hard to cover so many things in a 3 week period. Regarding the kids, I think they would be really bored with the subject matter. It's pretty steep stuff and I don't think they'll get it. Maybe what you can do is discuss the issues you'll learn and rehash it with them on their level. Hope this helps!
Hooty

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correction the the agenda. The first week topics will be "Baptism", "Communion" (not "Sin" as listed) and "Purgatory"
Hooty

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Hooty, I decided to sign up for the class. Are you sure though that there will be no Catholic bashing at this seminar? I have been reading the posts on these blogs of former Catholics and non-Catholics and they seem to be salivating at the prospect that Cedarcreek is going to be saying what is wrong with Catholicism. It is almost like they are saying they are going to get theirs finally. I wanted to say if anyone says anything that I deem derogatory or disrespectful at this seminar toward Catholics, I am going to take them on. lol I don't think such comments would come from you or other people hosting the event but they might come from the audience and I am ready for it if it does happen. Hope you are doing well!

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I am thrilled!!! Thank you for doing this class. I am a cradle Catholic, but I was not being fed at the banquet table. I was invited to the Creek in 03 and I found the banquet table overflowing. I am now overflowing with the love of Christ. I currently work at a Catholic school and our two youngest still attend. Fortunately they now know the difference between tradition and the Word. We have many discussions. It took me 3 years to unleash myself from the chains I had around me from my upbringing. I praise the Lord for guiding me to a closer relationship with Him. Again thank you for this class!!!

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Hi Jason. I'll try hard to be a good referee! I don't think that will be necessary though. I think it's important to agree that it's ok to disagree in our beliefs and theology. In fact the class main aganda is to show the differences. It will be no secret that we dissagree and believe we're right. However, "bashing" to me means to share in such a way that is disrespectful and mean spirited. No way, am I going to allow this! If someone stands up and shouts something in a derogitory way, either way, our bouncers will show them out! (not really) Jesus said things that upset the religious leaders and yet He never sinned or did anything wrong. Looking forward to an interesting seminar!
Hooty

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I'm pumped about so many people coming to the seminar! So far, we well over 400 that have pre-registered. If you're reading this and are planning on coming, pre-registering will be a huge adavntage to you. Also, you'll want to show up early because there will probably be a big line to check in. Just curious- what kind of questions do you have? I'll try to take some of the most common ones and see if Mr. Richard Bennett will answer some. We'll try to leave some Q & A time at the end of his session week two.
Hooty

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Hey Kelly94,
Just wanted to throw this thought out there. In reference to your Grandmother's stance on the Catholic doctrine of transubstantiation, ask her where in scripture does a Priest do such a thing? At the end of the day it is just scripture being taken out of context..
Check out this web site: www.justforcatholics.org, it is a GREAT resource to understanding some of the Catholic doctrine and traditions...you will get all the answers you need girl! By the way, don't debate...it really gets no where, but share Truth with Grandma in a loving manner.

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By the way, you should go to Hooty's class and ask your Grandma to come too. That way you both can learn something new together!!

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I think the matter of transubstantiation comes from a literal reading of Scripture. Jesus says this is my body and this is my blood. Catholics take that literally and Protestants don't. It is a matter of interpretation, that's all. I am going to this seminar to learn more about the Catholic faith. I am fascinated with the history and study of religion. I am not going here to learn how to convert Catholics to Protestantism or to use the information as a weapon on my behalf. I just want to learn some new info.

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I wouldn't say it was evil. It is their way of interpreting what Jesus said about his body and blood. Catholics take it literally word for word.

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This is the deal; the NUMBER ONE warning in the New Testament is to watch for false teaching. So to think that you know all that you need to know is just plain dangerous. Everyone can learn from this class whether you grew up Catholic or not, whether you know the Catechism or not, it is purely educational. Educating
Kelly94, I do not think that this would be session where your Grandma would just hear how her beliefs are wrong, but it would be an opportunity for you and her to understand the differences in beliefs.
By the way, Jason you may also want to check out the website I referenced earlier, I think you will be fascinated by the information available. Check out the answers and doctrine sections….

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I am really looking forward to the ex-catholic monk/priest speaking in the second class. I read some of his testamony. This guy is really neat! I hope everyone can make it!!!

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kelly94-I have been raised Catholic my entire life and still am a practicing Catholic, but that is something I have struggled with a lot in the past. However, as Catholics we believe that the priests represent Jesus in a way, that is why only males can be ordained as priests. so in a way we aren't adding to the Word, we are just reenacting it. and the priest is taking Jesus' place. We do not think that the priest is taking Jesus' place, but we believe that the priest is a representation of Jesus and as an ordained priest he has the "power" for lack of a better word to bless the bread and wine and transubstantiation occurs.

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PS i was browsing this website randomly (a kid in one of my classes did a presentation on CedarCreek today in class) and would it be possible to go to this and not have pre-registered? it sounds interesting and i am just sort of curious

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Ok, I can't stand it...I have to respond to the "Catholics take it literally thing"...you CANNOT group people into categories of Catholics and Protestants. That's why people get all defensive and bent out of shape about "their religion". There is only GOD'S WORD. I do agree it is somewhat subject to interpretation, but, only in the very minor details that none of us could possibly know for sure. The big stuff is pretty obvious. What is so frustrating to me is when someone defends something that is not biblical (although not evil, just not biblical) as though it IS biblical, just a “different interpretation”. Jason, if we go by what you say, it makes Catholics (which, by your account I’m not sure who that all includes) just steadfast, literal bible followers...hmnn...I don't see a tremendous amount of one-handed Catholics out there. “And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.” (Matthew 5:30) Nor do I see an over-abundance of them with patches over their eyes for getting the PLANK out. “You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.” (Matthew 7:5) That doesn’t give you a lot of room to work with. Come on man, at some point, SOMEONE has to admit that what some religions are doing is misconstruing and adding to the bible things that DO NOT exist in there. It needs to be identified as what it is...tradition. NOT the word of God. There is nothing constructive about generalizing the people of a religion. And, Jason, I think it would behoove you to start backing up your threads with scripture...it will make you sound much more intelligent having the word of God at your back and less argumentative just to argue for your own gains. I would love to hear more of what you have to say...but, to me, you're just some guy talking non-stop about something that he has yet to back up scripturally. We have all heard billions of opinions in our lifetime...it isn’t until we actually crack open the word of God and read His opinions that it all starts to clear up and make sense. Praise God.

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Oh my my my Hiphop! That was some goooood shoot'n there. However, were you saying that unbiblical tradition in NOT evil?

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It depends on the tradition. If the tradition is to steal from your sister's house, well, then, that would be evil. If the tradition is kneel, stand, kneel, stand, sit, kneel, stand again...that is not evil. A tradition becomes evil when it breaks the COMMAND OF GOD. (Matthew 15:3-9) Now, of course this is going to offend those who practice these traditions when they are challenged by those who know the words in the bible. (Matthew 15: 12) In these cases, their natural reaction to be offended stems from pride, fear and ignorance. (Matthew 15: 13-14) There are harmless traditions that are not breaking the commands of God. Be careful not to generalize and categorize people/traditions by their religious affiliations. I also wanted to really quickly point out that the unbiblical truths taught/practiced by the roman catholic church (or ANY church) do not identify who every person is by association. Unfortunately it is the unbiblical practices/rules/criteria that are handed down generation after generation that are just accepted at face value and not truly investigated by each individual for themselves that lead to the demise of one’s faith/salvation. With that being said, it is up to each one of us to open the bible, the WORD OF GOD, and find out for ourselves if we are truly living our lives as God intended. Are we following God’s rules/practices/traditions? Please, please, please do not let your salvation and the salvation of your children depend on what someone else says the bible says…pick it up and read it. Don’t waste precious time arguing opinions...pick up the book God gave you and read for yourself. You cannot argue with God.

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Hippo, you said that so eloquently that I have nothing to say. And that is very unusual. Very very good.

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I never said that you guys thought Catholics were going to hell. I said that they are not is the way I see things. You guys imply stuff that I never said. lol

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Hooty, I want to thank you for your opening in the seminar last night. You were very respectful and polite while comparing beliefs. I didn't pick up any judgmental or condescending attitude in your presentation and that is good. I wish I could convince some of the people on these posts to have the same approach but I can't control that. lol I am just waiting now to see whether Richard Bennett and the audience have the same attitudes. :) I have one question though you did not address and I wondered what Cedarcreek's view was. The Catholic Church says that Christians who commit sins before death and do not have time to confess them go to purgatory to be cleansed of those sins. What is Cedarcreek's view of where believers go that commit a sin such as adultery before death but don't have time to confess it to God? Just wondered what your thoughts were. Again, I want to thank you for a great opening night!

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The danger in sit, stand, kneel… or any view of communion or any other act that we perform in honor of our Lord is when we see our actions as a means to grace. When some one believes that taking the Lord’s Supper, saying a certain prayer, being baptized, participating in a certain style of worship or inviting a friend to church brings them any favor with God then we are sorely mistaken.
I am so far from perfect (God’s standard for righteousness) and no amount of any action that I can perform will ever bring grace and/or mercy on me. That is the true danger in any group of believers whether they are Catholic, Protestant or whatever when their actions are believed to be sacred (a sacrament).
I remember a time when I was young when we thought we were being holy because we wouldn’t eat at Pizza Hut because they served beer. It was just one part of what we were doing to try to be good enough to follow Christ. Well, I now know that our salvation comes by faith and not “Good works, so no one can boast” in their righteousness. Do I still Worship, tithe, study scripture and try to avoid sin? Yes! But it is not to gain mercy, grace or righteousness. It is out of love and devotion to God.
Earlier today, I read in The Way of the Wild Heart, by John Eldridge a line that is fitting here. “The Warrior must learn to yield his hear to nothing. Not to kill his heart for fear of falling into temptation, but to protect his heart for more noble things, to keep the integrity of his heart as a great reservoir of passionate strength and holy desire.” We should avoid sin (take communion, serve in the church, tithe…) not to gain brownie points but out of respect and devotion to God. Unfortunately, too many people are being taught that their actions determine their eternal standing with God. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Oh, by the way, Jason. I think you would be hard pressed to find anywhere in scripture are we told to only pray the “Lord’s Prayer.” In fact, it doesn’t even say that we have to or should pray the “Lord’s Prayer”. And, Jesus himself prayed quite a different prayer in John 17 where he prayed for you and for me.

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I am sorry if I offended you by my post, kelly94. I certainly didn't mean to. I think your posts are very insightful, tolerant, and reasonable. In fact, if I didn't know you were thirteen, I would have assumed an adult was making your comments. lol

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Interesting conversations going on here. Gets people thinking. I just finished the first night of the seminar. Over 500 came and more than 2/3rds had a Catholic background. Who went and what did you think?

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Thanks, Skeeter for your post. I was referring to where Jesus said this is how you should pray in Matthew. That passage has become known as the Lord's Prayer and I thought that is how He wanted us to pray.

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Here is a little something the bible says about prayer. The Lord instructed us to pray not only for our needs but to reach out and pray for others as well. We find this in I Timothy 2:1-6.

"I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time."

We are told to pray and to make intercession for all men. Intercessory prayer is like a "meeting with," a conversation held on the behalf of others. "Intercessory prayer," then, is seeking the presence and audience of God for someone else.

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There I go quoting scripture again...I'm such a show off. You'd think I could just spout off at the mouth with whatever comes to mind. I mean, who cares where my information comes from, right?

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I walked out of the first class last night feeling numb. I was shocked by what the Catholic religion teaches on pergetory. (attending Kyles seminar on Revelation wayed heavy on my mind) My heart aches that so many are confused. Hooty, you did a great job!

My questions...Who wrote the Catholic teachings?
Is the Holy Bible used and read in the Catholic church? Are members of the Catholic church encouraged to read the Holy Bible? I guess I am curious why scripture has been left out or skipped over. Also wondering why the Catholic Pope (past and present) change their rules. If they go by the Catholic teachings of tradition, does tradition say they can modify their rules? Sorry if my questions sound ignorant. I am not Catholic.

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God bless you all!

Having heard of your "Questions about Catholicism" seminar, I HAD to find out WHO was speaking for the Truth of Catholicism. It seems you have a former "Priest/Monk"? Why not go to orthodox Catholic Church sites and materials?? Such as,

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (OFFICIAL Church teachings. Not a caricature or taught mis-conceptions)
http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/ccc_toc.htm

Cathoilc Answers-
http://www.catholic.com/

Defense of the Apostolic Christian Faith
http://www.catholic-legate.com/

There are many people who leave the Church without really knowing WHAT the Catholic Church is.

As for many postings on here about THE Church's "traditions". It may come as a surprise to some of you that the Catholic Church GAVE you one of Her Traditions!! ...that would be the Sacred Scriptures :- ) The Church does have traditions and so do ALL Protestants. But, the Catholic Church also has Sacred Tradition (note capital "T").

"Therefore, brothers, stand firm and hold fast to the traditions that you were taught, either by an ***oral statement or*** by a letter of ours." 2 Thess. 2:15

You have the Bible because of the Catholic Church :- ) ...because of God giving Authority to His Apostles who handed this Authority to other men 2 Tim. 2:2 as St. Paul (a bishop) instructs St. Timothy (a bishop).

My email is 1maccabees@msn.com

God is Love,
Joe

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Would you like us to provide footnotes from now on? LOL

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I am not a teacher at the moment. I am a substitute. I haven't found a teaching job as of yet. I am thinking about moving out of state because it is so difficult to get a job in this area.

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500 came the "Questions about Catholicism" class last Thursday. I think even more are planning on coming next Thusday 10/11 7PM to hear former Catholic priest, Richard Bennett speak. Feel free to come even if it's your first time. If you have questions that you would like to have answered, possibly by Richard himself at the end of his presentation, you can submit those to "Catholicism@cedarcreek.tv". We'll pick through them and try to answer to most common ones.
Hope to see you there! hooty

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Regarding the Catholic teachings on purgatory, I don't think the Church ignored Scripture. They came up with the idea to explain something that Scripture did not address or give an answer to. That is the question of what happens to people who die believing in Christ but with unconfessed sin. I went to a Catholic high school and took four years of religion classes so I know why Catholics believe the way they do in some cases.

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Listen people. There are alot of things being tossed around here about the ancient Apostolic Catholic Faith ...somethings NOT SO CLOSE TO being truly what the Church professes as doctrine/dogma.

Again, if anyone wants to know what Holy Mother Church teaches (which is the Faith Jesus handed to His Apostles) email me 1maccabees@msn.com or go to official Church teaching, the Catechism, http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/ccc_toc.htm

Here is a website that will help you know the Truth about Catholicism from Scripture also-

http://www.scripturecatholic.com/index.html

May we (by His grace alone) fulfill the Master's prayer to the Father,

"I pray not only for them, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, so that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us, that the world may believe that you sent me." Gospel according to St. John 17:20-21

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen!

God bless and thank you for letting me post!
Joe

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It can be quite dangerous to come up with things that's not in the bible.

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Hooty, you did a great job last Thursday and I look forward to the next seminars. One question I had was why is communion only offered at New Community? My job doesn't allow me to attend NC but I would certainly appreciate communion being offered to us at least once a month during regular service.

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Amen! Amen! So why do non-Catholics do this??
...that is, come up with things "that's not in the bible"?? :- )

Maybe you need to visit this particular site I suggested earlier on here, http://www.scripturecatholic.com/

If one were honest with themselves in looking into Catholicism they would look at official Church teaching and explainations on why we believe what we believe, why we worship as we do, etc,.

In Christ,
Joe

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My head just swims...why does it have to be so darned confusing, it shouldn't be. What happened to just having the faith of a child and there you be? Macabees is on to something about the purgatory thing...I was Catholic until 1 1/2 yrs ago when I became a dedicated Creeker. But there is still one issue that has always bothers me a bit. The Catholic bible has (I believe) 7 additional books than the Protestant version, one of them being Machabees. In 2 Machabees 12:46 it states "It is therefore a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead, that they may be loosed from sins." Now, it really bothered me for a long, long time that the Protestant bible had left out the book that references something like purgatory (how convenient! Where's the SNL church lady when you need her??) but I've since learned that these books were left out because there they were written in a different language (I want to say Greek but don't hold me to that) than the rest of the accepted manuscripts. And yes, Macabees (the blogger), manuscripts accepted by the CATHOLIC CHURCH!!! AAAAGGGGHHHH!!! Hooty, who's bible????? Maybe God set it up this way to test us to see how we'd behave amongst other Christains and how much we'd get hung up on stuff like this...I hope that's the case. I hope it really is insignificant.

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Jen, Walk ins are welcome hope to see you there.

MikeK

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Well, my response to that is basically anyone can back up anything they believe with the Bible and justify it. I am not a sexist but based on what Paul wrote I can certainly make that case. I don't believe sex is just for procreation but based on Genesis you can make that case. See, what I am getting at. You can't take it literally all the time and you can't assume that just because something is not in the Bible that it is bad. There is nothing wrong with sit, kneel, stand. I know it says in the Bible to only pray the Lord's Prayer but I don't think God is offended by other forms of prayer. I certainly don't always pray that one. I just pray whatever is on my heart using my own words. But you certainly can group people into two or three categories of Christianity. They are either Catholic, Protestant, or Orthodox. I assume you are a Protestant. I didn't say Catholics followed the Bible in all cases. I said in this case they took Jesus' words literally about His body and blood. By the way, you don't have any scripture that backs up that view is wrong. I personally don't believe in transubstantiation but there is nothing there that says it doesn't happen. I am not arguing for my own gains. I have nothing to gain from this debate but love and respect for people who share different beliefs than me in Christianity. It is one of the great things about our country. Besides, these beliefs that you guys get all bent out of shape about in the Catholic Church really mean nothing in the eternal scheme of things. You are not going to go to hell because you believe in transubstantiation or infant baptism or whatever. As long as you believe in Jesus Christ and accept Him as Savior as Catholics do, you are bound for heaven. (and that is a Biblical view). :)

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Context is vital, always use scripture in context of the idea that is being conveyed.

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I used to be catholic, but I never went to church, so I really don't even know much about Catholism as it is. I grew up in Queens and if I went to church, the neighbor kids would beat me up! Rough neighborhood.

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On Purgatory.

I do no understand your reasoning kelly94 for "not wanting a Catholic" to answer your question about a the *Catholic* Faith ??

Anyway, its pretty simple. The cleansing aspect of fire is frequent in Scripture (Is. 6:6-7). In fact God is a consuming fire (Heb. 12:29). Given that we must be perfect in order to enter heaven, Purgatory is simply a word for what God does to us before entering heaven. He purifies us.

Rev. 21:27 nothing unclean shall enter heaven; Mt. 5:48 be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect; Mt. 5:26 you will not be released until paid the last penny; Mt. 12:32 sin against Holy Spirit unforgiven in this age or next; Mt. 12:36 account for every little idle word on judgement day;Heb. 12:14 strive for that holiness w/o which cannot see God; 2 Maccabees 12:44-46 atoned for dead to free them from sin; 1 Peter 3:18-20, 4:6 Jesus preached to the spirits in prison 2 Tim 1:16-18 St. Paul prays for dead friend Onesiphorus

Also, read this in context prayerfully,

St. Paul's 1st letter to the Corinthians 3:10-15:
"According to the grace of God given to me, like a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building upon it. But each one must be careful how he builds upon it, no one can lay a foundation other than the one that is there, namely, Jesus Christ. If anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or straw, the work of each will come to light, for the Day will disclose it. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire (itself) will test the quality of each one's work. If the work stands that someone built upon the foundation, that person will receive a wage. But if someone's work is burned up, that one will suffer loss; ***the person will be saved, but only as through fire.***

Also read the Gospel of St. Luke 16:19-31

Go here http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/ccc_toc.htm (the Catechism of the Catholic Church) and type in the search bar Purgatory. Yes, it is complete with footnotes and references ;- ))

God is Love,
Joe

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What REALLY is the purpose of this seminar? To join us all together, despite our differences, or to pull more people into your church just because you may or may not be able to quote scripture better than a "catholic", or to confuse people and get them when they are vunerable and confused and work on them from there? Hopefully, my first reason is the reason. Missed the first week, but very interested in finding out what your motives are out there at CC.

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Hooty,
The first session was very informative. You presented the material in a very logical, non-threatening manner that was respectful to both sides. I am currently a member of St. Rose Catholic Church and am a member of the Creek. I attend, support, and am involved in both churches. I don't think there is one perfect church but the combination of the two is a perfect fit for me. I have just one suggestion for the next two classes. I cringed everytime you referred to Fr. Leyland as "Tom". Unlike the Creek, the Catholic Church is very formal with titles and would never call a catholic priest by his first name. It denotes a lack of respect for his position. It's like calling our president "George".

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Hi Barb. Great point about Mr. Leynand's title. When we met, I asked how he would like for me to address him, "Father, Thomas, Mr. Leyland"? He said, "call me Tom". After the interview, I gave him a tour of the church and he introduced himself to the satff that he met as "Tom Leyland." I do feel awkward just calling him "Tom". (by the way, I'm "Steve" to him, not "Hooty" That may make him feel wierd too!) We really get along well. I'm getting with him again for lunch this Thursday. I'll ask him about how to mention him in my seminar. Thanks for asking about it. I'm also a little up in the air about it but also feel a little wierd about me calling him "Father". I'm not hung up on titles. I'll do whatever's appropriate in God's eyes in this situation.

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probably the most expert person on Catholcism I'll probably ever know is former Catholic Priest Richard Bennett, my guest speaker this Thursday night. He'll have his book available, "Far From Rome, Near to God", testimonies of 50 Catholic priests and "Catholicism East of Eden", insights into Catholicism for the 21st century. I think it's important for everyone to do a little homework.

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^i agree, all of us need to do our homework and study more about the word of God, so we may be enriched with his Spirit.

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There still seems to be some confusion as to the purpose of the class. Go to my opening comments on 9/27 and download the intro page to the seminar.

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Maccabees, I am certainly NOT against the catholic church, I don't agree SOME THINGS that they teach. And YES, I AM FAMILIAR with a lot of the catholics teachings. I have never been catholic, but have been to the church many times. So I don't really need to go to the Catholism class because I am not confused, and if I was, I don't care because I was and never will be catholic. I mean nothing against catholics, I love my grandma and papa with all my heart and they're catholic. I'm not planning to argue with them about it, so I'll leave it at this. I don't want to know the difference between non denominational church beliefs and catholic beliefs, why would I? I grew up pentecostal or non denominational, basically the same thing, so I'm going to put this the nicest way possible... I don't care. Tammy, I don't need to do research, I ALREADY know what I believe. I really stirred up contraversey putting in that remark about not a catholic answering didn't I? I simply was asking for someone to explain to me where the idea of purgatory came from, and if I was right about the Abraham's Busam thing. I don't need to know anything further about the catholic's belief system, I don't disagree with everything they teach, for the most part, I do agree, but things like, purgatory, communion, baptisim, praying to saints, etc., I have different opinions on. If you are catholic I am terribly sorry if I offended you. Bite back at what I said Maccabees, if you want, I don't care, I'm not offended at all, you can't let little things like that bother you :)

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Hi Kelly, :- ) Again, you asked about a "Catholic" Dogma. So, again, I could not understand why you wouldn't want to hear "Catholic" teaching on Her OWN Dogma. ?? The "idea" of Purgatory is rooted in Judahism. And yes, "Abraham's busom" IS related to the understanding of Purgatory. You should "care" as a Christian. You should seek for the Truth ...always. No matter where it leads you. Bye bye now. May we continue to grow in His Turth. Joe

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Hooty, I'm sorry you do not know any orthodox Catholics. And, you really do not know what you are saying about "not knowing any other expert Catholics". If one knows Jesus they know Catholicism. For He instituted the Catholic Church. I understand many might find this an arrogant thing to say. But, again, HISTORY PROVES this. Look into the Early Church Fathers -"those who sat at the feet of the Apostles". I agree totally with you that it is "important for everyone to do a little homework". But what shall we study, Authentic Catholicism or anti-Catholicism? Far from an "expert on Catholicism, I see Richard Bennett as an "expert" on ANTI-Catholicism! Again, if one were honest in desiring answers about Catholicism, WHY NOT ask those who believe Catholicism?? Therefore, getting authentic answers about the subject at hand. Not caricatures and half truths from some who protest Its beliefs. May God lead you into all Truth. Joe

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greetings to all,
I have really enjoyed reading everyones comments. Have one question, why would anyone want to go to purgatory? I'm going straight to Heaven! John 3:16, Romans 6:23, Romans 5:6-11, Mt. 1:21, I Ti. 1:15-16. I could go on and on. Quick! Everyone grab your Bibles and see how many more verses you can find relating to salvation. Good luck and good reaging.

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Excellant class on catholicism tonight Hooty!!! My husband, who was raised catholic and Irish to boot, is finally starting to understand and believe that Jesus is THE ONLY WAY TO SALVATION. He is still confused about how God's grace not only forgives our past sins but also future sins that we have not yet commited. Hooty, I thought you were about to go there during the video interview of Tom Leyland when you said something about commiting the same sin over and over again but you didn't. Maybe someone on the panel at next weeks class can explain this. I'll be praying all week for those attending the class that have not already made a commitment to Christ that they might do so.

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Richard Bennett did an amazing job sharing his personal story... and hearing what a Catholic priest of 30-40 years had to say after he saw the discrepencies between the Bible and the Cathecism... wow. That was all a very enlightening and informative class. My grandparents were there who are die-hard catholics. My grandpa has been "healed" at the shrine to Mary in Oregon... they have donated thousands to the Catholic church and the shrine to Mary... they were the last people I thought would ever step foot into a class like this willingly... but Richard Bennett is on THEIR level. He's not some punk kid telling them why they should think one way or another. He's a man who devoted more of his life to the Catholic faith than he has to anything else and he came out on the other side with a deep understanding of the faith's ups and downs. There are MANY postives to the Catholic faith, but if Satan can twist it... just enough... to get the focus off of Jesus and onto salvation by works, praying to saints/Mary and not God, and other major Biblically incorrect directions... bingo. I'm not saying the Catholic faith wasn't started back in the early days, but I am saying that it has become a far different creature than it was when it was first set up. To have doctrine from the pope be on the same level as the Bible... to have required sacrements for salvation... etc... is a far cry from "salvation by grace and grace alone".

Nice work CedarCreek! Thanks for sharing this opportunity with us and for helping us and our loved ones (some very deep in the Catholic faith) to really examine why we believe what we believe. God based, or man based.

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This is exactly what I think Wendy. Why would anyone want to go to purgatory!???!!! Heaven is so much better! I'd rather be with Christ!

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Truly awesome classes on Catholicism. I have always hoped for clear explanations on many issues that I learned growing up in the Catholic church. Both session to date make clear that the Catholics seem to know all of the answers and that their doctrine is the truth. Now I understand that this is not so. Bennett's presentation was astounding and life-changing and factually demonstrated that the Catholics are lost in their search for the Truth. I am so grateful to have found CedarCreek and the Truth that is spoken here. I pray for all Catholics everywhere, that they might open their good books and read of the word of God and find salvation in Jesus Christ.

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WOW!!!! I got an answer as to what your purpose of these classes were, and it saddens me greatly!
People can argue all day long about what it says in the bible and how each church/pastor interprets the same. You can watch just as many people who have converted TO Catholocism from their former religions, whatever it may be, on EWTN each Monday night. But Catholics believe, just as you do, that Jesus is our Lord and Savior.
I am absolutely, positively no doubt in my mind sure that when I have attended mass, life in the spirit seminars, marriage encounters, feeding the poor through several different programs, TEC weekends (pretty much everything Cedar Creek does, except Cedar Creek has "great music, great FEELINGS, great Coffee"-I heard it in your commerical) - I KNOW FOR CERTAIN - through all of these Catholic programs that I have been a part of and/or attended, I have never, ever, ever, ever been told that some other religion is wrong - as a matter of fact we pray for "the good of all his church", which means EVERYONE! We grow through these programs in our relationship with JESUS, our Father. We don't put down and/or decide anyone else is wrong and/or misguided.
I have been to Cedar Creek several times, actually liked the messages and the NON-JUDGMENTAL attitude I thought you all had. Hooty, it is not up to you or anyone else at Cedar Creek to decide if my faith is wrong or right. I would rather attend any catholic class anywhere and become closer to Christ through prayer and worship than attend a session to try to confuse people more. Who's doing the bad guy's work . . . . ? I wonder . . .
God Bless EVERYONE, AND I STRESS THAT WORD GREATLY.

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Tammy, yes people can interpret the bible differently on an acute level but these topics are undeniable. Doctrines being taught as truth that contradicts our only source of real truth which is scripture. Don’t you know that the number one warning in the entire New Testament is to watch out for false teachers teaching false doctrine? We need to compare what we are being taught by our church to scripture to make sure we are getting the truth!! That is all that the Creek is doing for those with questions on Catholicism! Would you agree with John 1? (John 1 in the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.) So when we are talking about the word of God, “the bible” we are talking about Jesus! Upon comparing the catholic catechism to the words of Jesus we find great discrepancies. This must be brought out into the light! I thank Cedar Creek for proclaiming the truth in love! But are you to hard hearted to look at the facts. Please remember what the gospel of Luke says. (Luke 10:16 “The one who hears you hears me, and the one who rejects you rejects me, and the one who rejects me rejects him who sent me.”) So please take this warning Tammy. We are using Jesus words as our foundation and only source of truth. Not traditions and popes decrees! Hey Hooty, and Mr. Richard Bennett, please remember what is found in 1 Thessalonians. (1 Thessalonians 4:7-8 “For God has not called us for impurity, but in holiness. 8 Therefore whoever disregards this, disregards not man but God, who gives his Holy Spirit to you.”) Tammy, I pray that you will take the time to understand the heart of our Lord and see that he does care if his Word is distorted or added to!

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It's over and I'm exhausted! But not in a bad way, in an "I worked my tail off to present the material in the most honest and respectful way possible" kind of way. For those of you who attended the seminar, thanks for coming out. I know some statements drew a line and split the crowd. Jesus and Paul were pros at doing this. Some said, "yes, finally the truth". Other's, "wait minute, that hurts!" Here's the deal- there are great differences in what Catholics beleive and what I as a pastor and the other pastors of CedarCreek are teaching our people. Bottom line is, now everyone go and sort out what you heard between you and God. As we've always said from the pulpit of the Creek (partially qouteing Acts 17:11), "examine the scriptures to see if these things are so". Sometimes people get defensive by saying they're being judged whenever there are things said they don't like or agree with. I will never say a person is or is not going to hell. But the bible and only the bible lays it out clear. What do you believe, practice and follow? Sorry if anyone is wounded. I can honestly say that I love you all with a sincere desire for all to come to the knowledge of the truth, even though I don't personally know you. By the way, Tom Leyland told me that after he heard Richard Bennett last week, he's confidenet he has a genuine love for Catholic people. Same goes for me too! This blog will run it's course soon and i'll start a new one. Grace and blessings to all!

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I certainly believe that the Bible is our guide and God's word but I was wondering if we should take it literally or contextually. Are all parts of it relevant today or should it be followed in the context of modern day customs and beliefs? I have a tough time believing Paul's teachings on women for example and other places in the Bible where women have a secondary role to men.

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Great topic. And to answer a couple of my Catholic friends that made comments here, I really like Pope Benedict. His book on God's love is available at local libraries.
But his recent affirmation of the Catholic church as the only true church is exclusive and yes, critical of other churches. So I do not join his communion of churches at this time.

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MY HUSBAND CARL AND I ARE FORMER CATHOLICS. WE WILL BE ATTENDING YOUR CLASS. THANK YOU IT SHOULD BE INTERSTING.

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I agree with maccabees. Find out the TRUTH of what catholics believe YOURSELF - not from someone who does not or no longer practices. Really, really research HISTORY - - what did the apostles teach - - cause I would guess what they taught came from what they learned from JESUS. You will be pleasantly surprised that beliefs of catholics came from what the apostles passed on. Don't listen to what people DON'T BELIEVE for whatever reason - find out what YOU believe through researching history. We're all really not that far apart . . . Still curious as to the purpose of this seminar - have not gotten a response. My "journey home" to the Catholic Faith has been wonderful!!!! God Bless -

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Hi kelly94, No, sorry. Still not sure of your reasoning. What you leave me with is that you truly DO NOT want to hear the fullness of Catholic
teachings on Faith and Morals. That is, the "whys" and "hows", of Her teachings --historical Christianity, the faith of the Apostles and Fathers of the Early Church. You do not want to hear the Truth of Catholicism. Myself?, I would not go to Judas Iscariot, after betraying Jesus, to ask him about the correct beliefs/teachings of Jesus. Or, I would not go to a Mormon, who has left Protestantism, and ask him about Cedar Creek. What you lead me to believe is, you want to confirm YOUR "understandings" of Catholicism with those who have left the Catholic Church, for what ever reasons, to make yourself feel more "comfortable" in following Protestant views and understandings. Again, you should be honest with yourself and "test the waters" with an open mind. The Catholic Church is the MOST BIBLICAL Church I have ever came across. As Tammy mentioned, us Christians should research historical Christianity. Example: What came first? The New Testament or the Church? Where, when and how did we, as Christians, come up with the word Trinity or Hypostatic Union ?? That is, how did we develop our understanding of just Who God is?? -What is His Nature etc,?? "Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ" -St. Jerome (circa 400). Our relationship with Jesus, our Lord and Savior, can only increase in knowing these tenants of our faith. You wrote, "I don't agree with Catholics perspectives." My reply, I do not think you know what the Catholic Church teaches. John Henry Cardinal Newman, a former Anglican priest, said, "To be steeped in history is to cease in being Protestant". And Bishop Fultan Sheen, an early Catholic television Evangelist said, "There are not one hundred people who hate the Catholic Church. But, there are MILLIONS who hate what they PERCEIVE AS the Catholic Church." Do not leave Peter because of Judas. May God increase us all, Joe

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I have been attending CedarCreek for 2 months & was raised in the Catholic school system. I was very excited when Lee first mentioned this class during service. Not to place undue pressure, but I am hoping it will allow me some peace of mind. I admit that taking communion without a confession is still difficult, among other traditions that were ingrained in childhood by so many powerful figures I respected. I commend your ambition in tackling a topic that is so large & effects so many! Can't wait for class.

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Alright folks, your friendly neighborhood cedarcreek.tv moderator here... let's try and stay on the topic of the original blog post, and keep it respectful. Thanks.

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yeah, hat would be great to get my Grandma to go to the seminar Stacy, but I'm pretty sure she would take no interest in learning what's wrong with her beliefs, but that would be wonderful. I guess I just can't understand the Catholic beliefs, I grew up non denominational my whole life. But really, it never says anything about a priest doing that transition in the Bible, so they're adding to the Word of God, and that is not good. You can't make crap up and pretend that's what the Bible says, so isn't that evil?

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Joe, you are catholic aren't you? I'm sorry to offend you. Just ignore my snooty comment about not wanting to hear a catholic's opinion. I take that back. I see that you seem to treasure Catholicism. But you can't tell me what me as a christian should do. I wouldn't tell you what to do. I know I have my rights and wrongs, but I always try not to judge people. I can understand if I was catholic that I should care about Catholicism, but I'm not. I'm not saying catholics are bad, I'm sure some of them are great people. I don't think it affects what kind of person you are, there are good catholics and bad catholics, there are good non denominational people and bad non denominational people, so my point is, I don't base what I think of someone on their religion. Now, I think we got off to a bad start. Hi, I'm Kelly, I'm thirteen years old and I have been going to Cedar Creek for a little over a year, I used to go to Faith Tabernacle Church of God, since I was two. I stopped going there 3 years ago, when my parents got divorced. I have one little brother, one step brother and two step sisters. I'm in eighth grade and go to Eisenhower Middle School. I love Jesus and I truly think that's what matters. I say,"You haven't lived until you've felt the spirit of God." Well, that's about it. Hopefully we can have some nice converstations now. I mean no offense to you or any catholics. Nice to meet you, Joe.

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My reasooning in asking "not a catholci to answer" was this : I son't agree with the catholics perspective, so why would I want to ask them to explain this to me, I don't believe their view on this, but it would be nice to get a former catholic's view on this. Do you see what I'm saying maccabees? By the way, interesting username.

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Like I said, I'm not here to argue with Catholics. But Jason, I never said my beliefs where right, they are my interpretations, you can't state that your interpretations are right, because you don't know. I don't think that just because something isn't in the Bible that it's wrong. The Bible is just one resource that we have. You can have your own opinion on what's right or wrong, just keep the Biblical view. And I most certainly don't think that Catholics are going to hell, I am not the judge, God is! He decides. Geez Jason, what are you getting at here?

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Isn't the whole idea of purgatory adding to the Bible? No need to offend anyone, but really, where does it talk about purgatory ine the Bible? I know that before the death of Christ there was Abraham's Busam (or however you spell it:) but after Jesus died, people would now go to either Heaven or hell. So I guess maybe Catholics believe that Abraham's Busam is still there. It really is confusing. It would be nice to have a chance to make up for your sins after you die, but that's just not how it works. Because Jesus died, we can now be forgiven and go to Heaven. Abraham's Busam was just a waitng place for people who died, until Jesus died on the cross, those people weren't yet forgiven for their sins, except, I think you could if you made a sacrafice. Someone help me out here, am I right about this? (Someone who isn't catholic please explain this to me.)

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No Jason, you didn't offend me. Thank-you, I appreciate that you think my posts are insightful. I agree with you on alot of things you've said too. Youseem to really know your stuff. You seem like a very intelligent individual. So you said you are a science teacher, I used to have a student teacher in science named Jason, what school do you teach for?

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So you are a teacher Jen, for what school? Oh, and about the priest thing, I understand Jesus was a man, but ANYONE should be able to preach the Word of God. But the catholics beliefs are their interpretations, and they need to make that clear, beacause you can't state your interpretation on something and say that's how it is, as Stacy said, that's dangerous. But hey, I don't wanna offend anyone, I don't go to blog her just to argue with Catholics, I will never win, and neither will they.

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I'm not going to the class Hooty, I never was catholic. But I was wondering about the whole Communion thing, my grandma is always bringing it up and fights with me about it, what exactly does it say in the Bible that let's us know that we aren't really eating the body of Christ and drinking the body of Christ? Because for some reason the Catholic Church gets the impression that that's what the priest is turning it into. I would like to have some back up to support my views on that when she feels like "debating" with me.

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I am not attending the classes, I taught Catholic religion for several years to children on what is required of them. Any questions please feel free to ask, I hope it goes well. Remember that judgement is something that we are not able to do be kind and understanding. I was a catholic until to drove past cedar creek one day. My son will not make his first communion, but he can take communion at Cedar Creek, How Weird . Good Luck.