But truly, if the Catholic Church is claiming that it has the authority to dispense the Holy Spirit to whom it chooses, or conversely to refuse the Holy Spirit to whom it chooses -— then the Church (not the members of it) is in deep, Spiritual, darkness on that point.
The Holy Spirit is God. The Church is not God. Jesus Christ who also is God, baptizes with the Holy Spirit. And the Father Himself, gives the Holy Spirit according to His own will:
If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall [your] heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him? - Luke 11:13
On the other hand, if the Catholic Church recognizes those who are outside of the “Catholic Church” but who are baptized with the Holy Spirit as part of the “universal church” - then it is not in deep, Spiritual, darkness.
So which is it?
= = = =
INDEED.
Much as you assert that you are not moved, influenced etc. by doctrines of men . . .
I’m not particularly in favor of any organization of man—and, typically, the older, the more full of erroneous !!!!TRADITIONS!!!! and doctrines, customs, idolatries of men.
However, I consider brothers and sisters in Christ to be in virtually all organizations—if not all—who’s organizations claim Jesus as Lord and Savior.
I have no trouble at all fellowshipping with all Led of Holy Spirit who put God’s priorities first.