I am a firm believer in the principal that any teaching in the Church (regardless of denominatin) that conflicts with the Bible is inherently wrong. Even from the early days of the Church - when someone would recognize conflicts with Scripture (keeping in mind this was the time when many of the Epistles were still in-hand, as well as a great deal of the other Scriptures (although it was not yet Canonized in it's current format), they would be "dealt with". This example has been repeated many times throughout Church history.
The other problem - and this quite possibly is the biggest - is the defense of theology and practice using "tradition" and those same Church fathers. My belief is that the Bible is the only source for revelation - it is complete and doesn't need additional input from man. This belief is backed up by the Bible itself (Psalm 119:160; I Corinthians 2:13).
And having done a bit of study on Mr. Chick and others like Ray Comfort, I have found an underlying theme - they take the New Testament literally and rely on the Scripture alone for their guide. Mr. Chick is far more agressive than most regarding the Catholic Church - possibly because he feels deeply that there are still many false teachings within the Catholic Church. In fact, have you read any of Mr. Chick's arguements with an open mind?
My primary problem with Chick is that he is a Bible Translation snob---he is dogmatic about translations other than the King James.
"In fact, have you read any of Mr. Chick's arguements with an open mind?"
Like 'The Death Cookie'? Yes, I've read some of them. I'm suprised there are so many like you that believe them. I find it sad and discouraging. Would you please read through this article? I think maybe you should read a little more about Mr. Chick.
http://www.catholic.com/library/sr_chick_tracts_p1.asp
I read the Early Church Fathers because they learned from the Apostles. It helps to understand what it was like then. It rounds out the scriptures for me. Puts them into context. Our traditions are scriptural. Our teachings do not have any conflict with the Bible. You use "tradition" as if it were a bad word. What in the world did all those Christians do before the printing press was invented?
"Paul illustrated what tradition is: "For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the scriptures. . . . Whether then it was I or they, so we preach and so you believed" (1 Cor. 15:3,11). The apostle praised those who followed Tradition: "I commend you because you remember me in everything and maintain the traditions even as I have delivered them to you" (1 Cor. 11:2)."
You see, I can quote scripture as well as you can. The problem lies in the interpretation. When there is conflict to whom do you turn? I listen to scripture and turn to the Church. Maybe you should attend Mass some day. You'll find that the entire thing is scriptural. There are a lot of misconceptions about the Catholic Church spread with the help of Chick and others. It's a pity that so many hate what they think they know of the Church instead of attempting to find the Truth.
I hope you find it someday.
God Bless!