[Mad Dawg]

Have you read "Dominus Iesus?" I don't suggest it with the expectation that you would be persuaded, but it might be useful in understanding the details of our claim to be 'the Church'.

On another thread I put up a little passage from St. Augustine which might also help nuance the understanding of the claim.

[small voice in the wilderness]

Mad Dawg, you are an honest broker, I believe. You know I have a great respect for you.

we are told to put on the whole armour of God. You don't go to a tea-party with armour on. This is a spiritual battle going on, you know this. There is a time to be quiet and listen. And there is a time to stand strong with truth and the sword of the spirit, which is the Word of God.