Replies

Christ gave the keys to Peter, giving Him the power to bind and to loosen. But the Church believe God’s mercy is greater than we know (thankfully). It’s called ‘baptism of desire’. Think of the good thief on the cross, He was saved without it. The Church also believes that God takes care of those who have never heard of Him. Like some guy living in Outer Mongolia. Ulimately, God is still the judge, only God knows what is in men’s hearts.

357 posted on 07/20/2007 9:09:42 PM PDT by rbosque ("To educate a person in mind and not in morals is to educate a menace to society." - Teddy Roosevelt)

Think of the good thief on the cross

An excellent example, one that I often cite. I believe that example was provided to show what really was required for salvation. Simply, faith in Jesus. No works, no sacraments. If I'm understanding you correctly, you believe the RCC's myriad of "requirements" (baptism, weekly Mass, yearly confession, belief in Marian dogmas, etc., etc.) are "helpful" but not "essential". Ultimately, salvation is by the Grace of God through faith in Jesus. I think we have some common ground.

Christ gave the keys to Peter, giving Him the power to bind and to loosen.

Yup, but then Peter died.

But the Church believe God’s mercy is greater than we know (thankfully). It’s called ‘baptism of desire’. Think of the good thief on the cross, He was saved without it. The Church also believes that God takes care of those who have never heard of Him. Like some guy living in Outer Mongolia. Ulimately, God is still the judge, only God knows what is in men’s hearts.

Or maybe the only Baptism that really matters is the Baptist of the Holy Spirit.

361 posted on 07/23/2007 5:14:25 AM PDT by DungeonMaster (Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.)