We do trust them (Church Fathers) when they are united and don't trust them when they are not united with the teachings of the Church
Herein lies the difference in identity of the Christian Church and the RCC identification of the Church. The Christian Church also trusts the Church Fathers when they are united and don't trust them when they are not united with the teachings of Christ. One has the object of a grouping of men labeled the Church, while the other focuses on the object providing foundation to the Church.
Catholic's believe the Church is guided by the Holy Spirit through the magisteriun and consensus patrum are the "teachings of Christ" which are also made up of the Church Fathers , thus, we have set dogmatic teaching on much of this to protect the flock from error
Those outside the Church read the Bible and decide what teachings of Christ fits their own agenda.Sometimes you get it right and sometimes you don't.There is not set united teachings to adhere to,it's like ...In the words of Frank Sinatra ..."I did it my why" theology
The Church also teaches that our separated protestant brethren "Churches"are "Christian communities" and do not call them Churches since we believe in one Church
Herein lies the difference in identity of the Christian Church and the RCC identification of the Church. The Christian Church also trusts the Church Fathers when they are united and don’t trust them when they are not united with the teachings of Christ. One has the object of a grouping of men labeled the Church, while the other focuses on the object providing foundation to the Church.
QUITE SO. QUITE SO.
THX