I've never been able to grasp why people hate Catholics and Jews. Never have, never will. Actually, I'm kinda glad I don't.
Seems some hate Jews because the Jews killed Jesus, of course there were no Christians then and the early ones were previously Jews, so I don't get it. Some of the hatred toward Catholics seems to be because they claim to be the true church of Christ, but that claim seems to be historically correct, so I don't get that one either.
I am there with you... I never understood the hatred of either Catholics or Jews. I grew up in the Methodist church. In high school my 2 best friends were each a Catholic and a Jew.
I got a visit from my minister one afternoon who told me in no uncertain terms that I must give up my friendships and only fellowship with other Methodists. I never quite grasped that concept, so I never went back to the Methodist church.
Now I'm a born-again evangelical and I still love my Jewish and Catholic friends. I've even added more to my list. I also love my Methodist friends.
My heart is heavy with the illness and potential loss of Pope John Paul II. I always held him in high regard. He had some major struggles within the church and by his actions, I knew he always consulted the Lord for guidance and answers.
My heartfelt sympathies to all of you who mourn.