Ok, on the one hand you are lead to believe it is a cult, then you say “I have friends who are deeply Catholic, really into the religion, who love it and are sustained by it. More power to you.” Whatever floats your boat indeed.
Friends, not myself. I’ve had discussions with them and they defend everything, don’t accept any point I make, and adhere to their authorities every word which then becomes their belief. I’m hoping no Pope comes along who like the taste of Kool Aide.
Uh, here's a classic example of a historical reference not helping an argument any.
Mr. Drink-the-Flavor-Aide himself, Jim Jones, was an ordained minister in the Disciples of Christ.