[SoothingDave]

Please point out where, and which doctrine, Amazing Grace is "in error with Catholic teaching" with. I've looked at the lyrics, and I don't see any such.

"Amazing Grace! How sweet the sound That saved a wretch like me!

Catholicism does not teach that we are "wretches." In my youth when we would sing this we would not say this part, substituting "that saved and set me free."

"Wretch" is shorthand for Calvin's "total depravity" doctrine. Catholicism teaches that we are damaged by Original Sin, but not "totally depraved."

SD

[trisham]

"Wretch" is shorthand for Calvin's "total depravity" doctrine. Catholicism teaches that we are damaged by Original Sin, but not "totally depraved."

*************

Those wretched Calvinists. Nothing but trouble. :)

[Wonder Warthog]

"Catholicism does not teach that we are "wretches." In my youth when we would sing this we would not say this part, substituting "that saved and set me free.""

Sure it does. What do you think "original sin" IS?? And we are also "wretched" if, after confirmation, we fall back into sin (and we ALL do) until we repent and confess. I know when "I'm" in such a state, I feel pretty "wretched" until I go to Confession. Nothing contradictory to Catholic doctrine at all.

""Wretch" is shorthand for Calvin's "total depravity" doctrine. Catholicism teaches that we are damaged by Original Sin, but not "totally depraved.""

Sorry. Bogus argument. Read the actual words in the lyrics---NOT what you imagine to be there.

[Mrs. Don-o]

I'm not sure it was based on Calvinism, especially since the author, John Newton, was ultimately ordained an Anglican priest (the Church of England rejects Calvin's doctrine of "total depravity.").

It could have been based on St. Paul:

Romans 7:24
What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death?