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For what it's worth, I've never read or heard a systematic theology that was completely correct. And some systematic theology is at the root of every denomination. The point is, then, there is no one "correct" or "right" church. There is the church universal...the complete body of Christ on earth, made up of all who belong to Him, those whom He has called and whom have responded to His call. Christ is the head of that church...not the pope, not the pastor, not the head of president of the denomination.

I agree, and while I believe 100% that the Word is the Word i.e. the only path to the father is thru the son, I am tolerant of certain divergent views among the different branches. However, in Catholicism, it seems, or at least the argument is made by some, that one is essentially putting faith in the men of the church. This is what is holding me back from what I feel drawn to.

However, in Catholicism, it seems, or at least the argument is made by some, that one is essentially putting faith in the men of the church.

But it is NOT as it SEEMS to you, brother. In EVERY faith, there will be human failures, to some degree. Satan wants us to look at those human failures and leave faith behind, but do not walk away from Peter because of Judas. Do not walk away from Jesus because His words are "hard to take", as so many did when He instituted the Holy Eucharist... as so many do today because they want to have it THEIR way and follow a Jesus they can stand.

However, in Catholicism, it seems, or at least the argument is made by some, that one is essentially putting faith in the men of the church. This is what is holding me back from what I feel drawn to.

With good reason, and I say that as a Catholic.

It was a Pentacostal, who once told me long ago, to beware of "man made" things, and to keep your faith in God.

Your journey in faith will take some time, and it will continue to grow. From what I'm reading, you're on your way. Just let the Holy Ghost lead you by the hand, and never let go. You'll be fine.

Does Catholicism teach that priests are middlemen? I.E. do I really need a Priest to make me right and forgive my sins? Must I confess to a priest, and not just directly to God

The priest is another Christ for purpose of confession. When Christ told his Apostles "Whose sin you forgive are forgiven" Christ's will on the matter was expressed. So yes you need a priest for forgiveness except in emergencies and since God never demands the impossible you sins can be forgiven. When the emergency passes, if it does, you should go to a priest as soon as reasonably possible.

Does the beauty of the mass, and the worhsip of Mary and the Saint amount to idolatry?
No. Idolatry is placing anything above or before God. The beautiful is a gift from God and reflects Him.

Most importantly is the submission to authority. Submitting to authority is the biggest problem in my life. It was a problem with my parents, it has been a problem with my jobs (witness my day time freeping), and it was a problem with Christ. I have overcome it with Christ (although still struggle with it) and have made good progess with parents, bosses, etc.

Christ established an authority on FAITH AND MORALS only..the Catholic Church. Thank authority is expressed by the Pope, Ecumenical Councils and the ordinary teaching of the Church over time. The authority of humans over us is deigned by God and our obedience to them is pleasing to God, but we are not to be obedient to them when they ask of us immoral things.

Does a Catholic submit to an authority other than God? While I admire and trust the men I watch on EWTN, it only takes a few minutes of FReeping to be reminded of limp-wristed catholics. Or, to be more generous, by accepting the authority of the church, am I accepting the authority of the MEN who run the church?

Only the authority of the Pope in faith and morals and in discipline. There are always appeals from the acts of lesser clergy and again our obedience to the lesser is pleasing to God as long as they do not command the immoral.

In protestantism, one can walk away from a pastor with unsound teachings. However, how does one do this in Catholicism? What does one think when a Vatican offical utters something stupid (like criticizing Israel for not giving aid, when in reality Israel offered the aid and Sri Lanka rejected it)? Or, when local bishops have been complicit in covering up sex scandals and transferring priests to inflict their harm elsewhere?

The Church has survived for centuries in spite of bad Popes and stupid clergy. The Church abounds with them. A Catholic must always keep their eye on the authentic teachings of the Church and when necessary must give respectful criticism to any bad behaviors on the part of the Pope or the clergy.

I would be very grateful for any advice. My wife is on my case about my watching EWTN all the time, and of course this is very meaningful to me personally.

PS:

Who runs EWTN? It seems to be such a better expression of the faith than that presented by big city parishes

Read about Mother Angelica. She started EWTN and has battled those types of priests and bishops about which you speak. And yes, she does present the authentic faith better than most parishes.

God bless and welcome to the true faith when you convert.