[blu]

It is not our business if the Pope got into heaven. That is for God alone to know. We'll find out if we get there. Of course, we think he should, but who are we to judge? We did not see into his soul...(but I'd put money on it!).

Catholic beliefs for dummies:

We believe that when you die one of three things can happen.

1. You were such a good person you go right to heaven.

2. You were so bad, with so many mortal and venial sins outstanding (like a bill you didn't pay, sins you didn't ask forgiveness for) you go straight to hell, do not pass purgatory, do not collect an air conditioner! or,

3, You go to purgatory. Purgatory is where you go to clean up your sins. (2nd grade perspective here: Purgatory is full of these huge stone bathtubs. People must sit there and scrub all their sins away. When they're cleaned up, they go to heaven). Also, grace will lesson your time there.

I know this is simplistic, but maybe its simplicity will help you understand it. I also don't think this was a good reason for firing this guy, unless part of the story got left out. If he maybe said Catholics won't go to heaven because they're not born again, then, yes, can him. Being a pastor doesn't make you God!

[JRochelle]

I worked with a girl that was raised catholic but didn't go to church anymore. She always said she was aiming for purgatory. She was living with her boyfriend at the time.

[pctech]

There are those who would say that none of those options ar biblically based. I for one.

BUT, MAJOR BUT HERE.....

I am not going to argue the about the basis of one's belief because there are so many of my faith system who I feel are also teaching ideas and doctrines I feel are not biblical.

The point is, does it really matter? We have our own lives and churches and faiths to clean up. Let's not tear each other down in the process. If I'm right and you're wrong, or if you're right and I'm wrong, we'll find out. If not here, then at the Judgement Seat of Christ.

[rwfromkansas]

" 1. You were such a good person you go right to heaven.

2. You were so bad, with so many mortal and venial sins outstanding (like a bill you didn't pay, sins you didn't ask forgiveness for) you go straight to hell, do not pass purgatory, do not collect an air conditioner! or,

3, You go to purgatory. Purgatory is where you go to clean up your sins. (2nd grade perspective here: Purgatory is full of these huge stone bathtubs. People must sit there and scrub all their sins away. When they're cleaned up, they go to heaven). Also, grace will lesson your time there."

That is salvation by works, not grace.

[tang-soo]

Please read Eph 2:8-9. It states source of Salvation in two clear and distinctive sentences. Also, GVenesis 10-12 somewhere says that Abraham was counted "Rightous" because of his faith - period.

[tang-soo]

Let me try that again - it's late (grin).

Please read Eph 2:8-9. It states source of Salvation in two clear and distinctive sentences. Also, Genesis 10-12 somewhere around there says that Abraham was counted "Rightous" because of his faith - period.

[juzcuz]

You go to purgatory....where you go to clean up your sins..
----
Wow,, I didn't know Jesus had a place set up for those who could do it for themselves.. a Purge-a-tory... No thanks..

Dear Jesus:
Thank you for dying for me and "All" my sins, sins of omission and co-mission. I thank you for allowing me to see that I can't absolve/save myself, neither can anyone else through prayer. Thank you for your precious blood that washed me clean and allows you live in my heart.. Thank you.. Jesus for your mercy and grace. AMEN...