[marshmallow]

One of the things which we need to do, Americans in particular, is to reestablish a connection with the early church. It's entirely absent in our "storefront" approach and it has lead to all sorts of improvisation and novelty.

Unless one holds to the idea that once Jesus ascended into heaven, it all went south and the church got lost only to be rediscovered a millenium or so later, then one needs to read and understand the writings of those who actually knew the Apostles, who were taught by them and who were instrumental in the early spread of Christianity. They, in turn, handed on what they had been taught to their own disciples.

History does matter. These men received the authentic interpretation of Scripture from those who were taught by Jesus. Their writings are important.

[what's up]

One of the things which we need to do, Americans in particular, is to reestablish a connection with the early church

I agree with this. Americans not only have to reestablish a connection with the early church...they need to reestablish a connection with history in general which the liberals have managed to erode.

However, Tthe early Fathers were fallible and had both good and bad things to say. This is one reason why their sayings are NOT equal with Scripture which is fully God-breathed. Therefore when a belief that the early Church Fathers held held CONFLICTS with Scripture, it is Scripture which must hold sway.

[Chaguito]

“it all went south and the church got lost only to be rediscovered a millenium or so later,”

Straw man.

But have you ever played “telephone”?

[Quix]

Real history probably matters somewhat.

Fantasized history a la the Vatican Cult is a farce and insult to intelligent folk far and wide.