[Old_Mil]

So he left the Church because of the scandals...and his own dissent - let's not overlook that part. Luther complained about scandals...and dissented. One can only hope his small church doesn't have a scandal, where'd he hop to next?

Luther left the church because of doctrine as much as scandal.

He joined a societally irrelevant, small church. No wonder they all agree. Small size, smaller problems. It's similar to running off to the SSPX - hey, it's 50 of us and we're all USDA Prime orthodox, baby! In the end, the logical consequence would be to start a "church of one". No one else around, no one to disagree with! It's a lot more courageous to stay with a huge Church.

To tell you the truth, I've given this some thought through the years. What if American Catholicism ended up in the same place that Episcopalianism has ended up? Certainly, it is true in our diocese (of Davenport) with a diocese in bankruptcy paying out damages on behalf of radical homosexual priests who preyed on the flock and a bishop's resignation.

I'm tried of a heirarchy that tiptoes around trying not to offend rainbow warriors as the stern of the titanic slips beneath the waves. Will there be any Catholics left in America in 50 years? I don't know.

Regarding family, I have gone to the same parish for mass for the better part of two years and the only words I've exchanged with my fellow parishoners are "peace be with you." I don't know their names, they don't know mine, and we go about our lives in quiet futility.

New testament, it is not.

[Aggie Mama]

Regarding family, I have gone to the same parish for mass for the better part of two years and the only words I've exchanged with my fellow parishoners are "peace be with you." I don't know their names, they don't know mine, and we go about our lives in quiet futility.

So why don't you talk to the parish priest and organize a coffee and donuts after Mass? Do you volunteer at the parish? I've found that's one of the quickest ways to meet everyone! =)

[hinckley buzzard]

Luther left the church because of doctrine as much as scandal.

False. Luther left the church because he was excommunicated. He never wanted to leave the church, but to reform it from within. He was kicked out, he never willingly left.

[redgolum]

You are in Davenport also? Man I feel for you.

My wife drives across the bridge to Moline just to try to find a priest who doesn't slur his "s's", and I like the fact there is a cross in the sanctuary.