[metmom]

There are points of contention that make it difficult for Catholics and Protestants to have a civil conversation, unfortunately.

It appears that in any case, there is no hope for civility.

What you are looking for isn't even a point of contention.

You have been very gracious on this thread and making it clear you are seeking for information and clarification, and have been attacked as being *malicious* and Catholics are *suspicious* of you, all for wanting some clarification on some things you don't understand about Catholicism.

And as of yet, there has been no clarification, only attacks on your motive and character.

It seems that civility cannot be expected when questioning, or seeking information or clarification, of Catholic beliefs.

[unlearner]

“It seems that civility cannot be expected when questioning, or seeking information or clarification, of Catholic beliefs.”

There are probably several reasons for this. One is that, as humans, those involved in heated debates on a subject tend to bring those emotions into new conversations.

Perhaps many Catholics, even the apologists, are sensitive about the particular matter I am questioning because it is something they feel doubtful about themselves. I can’t speak for them, but it does come across that way when asking questions results in such defensiveness.

“You.. have been attacked as being *malicious* and Catholics are *suspicious* of you.”

I don’t take it personally. I think it is just a delicate subject matter.

[Elsie]

You have been very gracious on this thread and making it clear you are seeking for information and clarification, and have been attacked as being *malicious* and Catholics are *suspicious* of you, all for wanting some clarification on some things you don't understand about Catholicism.

It must have gone up in smoke of a zotted reply number.