[Mad Dawg]

They do not differ in their theology, in what they hold to be De fide, or in their conformity with the See of Rome. Their leaders were at Vatican II. They differ only in rites and disciplines.

It is, therefore, not at all like the differences in the non-Catholic groups. They break up over theology, and over who gets to tell whom what.

We are united with our Maronite, Byzantine brethren -- one of my correspondents is a Byzantine Catholic and an acquaintance was baptized by the Maronites. -- in all the things which makes us Catholic, all the things you argue against. I never find any conflict with them over the things about which you contend with us. Indeed, I never have any conflict with them at all.

[caww]

in what they hold to be De fide, or in their conformity with the See of Rome.

Then why the sharp differences in the beliefs of the congregation if they are to follow Rome? The very woman who attended Mass regularly and adhered to the catholic church...yet she believes in Abortion for woman...that homosexuals have a right to marry.....at the same time cannot explain what she believes....I suppose all churches have those who are at very degrees of nderstanding of their faith...I'm not there yet and doubtful most will be throughly educated this side of heaven. But there are the differences..and most catholics I have spoken to do not know why they believe as they do....the catholics on these threads are an exception to the rule of the catholics I have encountered.