Something that I have been curious about: If the RCC/EO are separated because of political, not theological differences, why not use the same catechism? AND, why would an RCC remain an RCC but study with admiration the doctrines of the EO (and vise versa?)? Since they are the same (?) why not just attend an EO church if you think that they have superior understanding? It is not as though there is a geographic (East/West) impossibility. Just curious.
If the RCC/EO are separated because of political, not theological differences, why not use the same catechism?
While, I think most or many would agree, our bishops fell out over time primarily due to problems of distance and language, there are theological differences. Also our bishops are not in communion and therefore do not work together on such things as catechisms.
why would an RCC remain an RCC but study with admiration the doctrines of the EO (and vise versa?)?
All of the core doctrines are not only similar, they are identical, the same councils, the same writings of the Church Fathers, the same scriptures.
Also, some of the study I mentioned I wouldn't categorize as doctrine but as spiritual practice including contemplative prayer. As Kosta put it: "The backbone of our common orthodox and catholic faith is in apophatic knowledge of God, through prayer, Eucharist, liturgy, fasting, etc., and not through scholastics."
So, here again, it's the same, through, in some cases, different eyes. The Orthodox have maintained their spiritual laboratories, monastics and monasteries, better than the West. I'm of a contemplative personality, so avail myself of their incredible contributions. The many great works on prayer without ceasing are an example. There are several good schools of spiritual practice developed in the West; however, the practice of the Jesus Prayer has drawn me continually.
I should add that this direction does not apply to a great many Catholics although in my experience it is increasing.
why not just attend an EO church if you think that they have superior understanding?
By now you should see that doesn't come up for me. The superior understanding I'm seeking doesn't involve doctrine but prayer. My prayer practice doesn't know doctrine, or certainly no doctrinal differences.
It is not as though there is a geographic (East/West) impossibility.
For me it is somewhat. There's very little Orthodox presence nearby, although that is changing.
Something I think Protestants don't appreciate or understand fully is that our spiritual development, knowledge, understanding, etc., cannot be separated from our sacramental life, from life in the Church. There are many many things I cannot give you, just tell you about our Faith. This may even include, I think, the major knowledge of our Faith. I can't just tell you: "It's this." I can only point you to the mass, the liturgy, the sacraments. The deeper knowing comes in this way as it has through the centuries.
So it's essential that I participate, that I am there. And for me, there means my local bishop, my local cathedral, my local diocese and parish.
This is my views on the questions you asked me; others may differ. Apologies for the length and thanks for your post.