Scripture is the only inspired writings we have.
The opinions of the many ECFs, which often contradict not only each other, but official RCC teachings on the various topics, are just that...their opinions.
Every RCC priest, Sunday School teacher, bible study leader, etc puts together their own materials and lessons. They inject their opinion as to what they believe the text says.
We see this on these threads all day.
Peter bar Jonah, Paul of Tarsus, John the Revelator, John the Baptist, James of the Jerusalem church, Mary and Martha, Mary the mother of Jesus, all Jews before and after they met Jesus.
Founders of the Christian Church.
Jesus both man and God. God became flesh. 100% Jewish and 100% Diety...
Christianity came from all these people. Jesus did not want to do it alone, he established the Church with the help of his family and friends.
He said to Peter - upon this Rock I build my Church....
That’s all I have to say on the matter for now.. We can argue these facts among ourselves at a later date.... ha ha ha...
I don't know what ECFs are (perhaps you'll help me out here) but of course Catholics have their own opinions, including the Pope and, beyond Catholics, all the people on this forum, including ealgeone and Mom MD. And if they are not official doctrines (what Christ teaches through His Church), then here's what they are: opinions.
"Every RCC priest, Sunday School teacher, Bible Study leader, etc puts together their own materials and lessons. They inject their opinion as to what they believe the text says. "
Every non-RCC preacher-teacher-leader and blogger, as well.
We all do this. This forum wouldn't exist without it.
All these statements do not have equal status, though. Opinions (including papal ones) are just opinions.
The teachings of the Church, however, are authoritative; if they were not, Christ would not have told us to listen to Him by listening to the Church ("HE WHO HEARS YOU, HEARS ME", Luke 10:16)