This whole discussion is why I became an Orthodox Christian. The whole Catholic vs. Protestant "discussion" is so divisive.
1. Pray for me. (is that me "worshipping you for asking you to pray for me?)
2. Quoting scripture to "prove" theology. The Bible is a product of the church, not vice versa. The theology was around centuries before people started quoting Bible verses.
3. Mary is the ultimate example of obedience to God. She gave birth to God!!! To completely throw her out of the picture is an insult, while saying she was born without sin is deification. Our respect for her is a Christological statement. (BTW, the Orthodox do not accept the Roman teaching of Original Sin...that's another friendly discussion)
I just had to weigh in on this, because I want people to know there is another historic, ancient church that has not ever changed its teachings, nor will it ever.
The second we start "knowing" other people's salvation or God's plan for them, that is when our OWN salvation is in jeopardy...
God Bless us and pray for me.
While Catholics and Orthodox are very close, like protestants, the Orthodox are separated from the Chair of Peter. I too attend an ancient eastern church that is fully united with the Catholic Church.
"1. Pray for me. (is that me "worshipping you for asking you to pray for me?) "
Try "Pray TO me". Because that's what Catholic Mary requires.
"2. Quoting scripture to "prove" theology. The Bible is a product of the church, not vice versa. The theology was around centuries before people started quoting Bible verses."
Did the Church produce the OT? The early fathers quote Scripture habitually.
"3. Mary is the ultimate example of obedience to God. She gave birth to God!!! To completely throw her out of the picture is an insult"
Jesus did not direct us to focus on Mary.