Let's kibitz a bit longer. Catholic is a definitional thing. A Catholic is one who is in communion with the Church. Those whose actions and words establish that they are not in communion cannot be or remain Catholic. It is no different than if I were to simply declare myself an NFL quarterback or a Navy SEAL, or Kalif Sheik Mohammed made a statement today saying; "Although I have not changed any of my core beliefs or practices and have not repented of any of my sins I am today declaring myself a Catholic." He would be no more Catholic than Nancy Pelosi.
Many people are very confused by the whole concept of excommunication. It is not always a formal procedure and its purpose is not punitive. Matthew 18:15-17 concerns disputes between Church members, not necessarily sins. However, when we consider that sin hurts not just the sinner, but all members of the Church excommunication can be considered the beginning or recognition of the need of the "Matthew 18" process.
Peace be with you
No, it’s not the same.
One is just someone claiming so without any valid basis.
Those like Pelosi and Kennedy were baptized Catholics, which according to other FRoman Catholics, leaves an indelible mark on the soul of that baptized individual. Once a Catholic, always a Catholic, you know.
The RCC then claims authority over them and counts them as part of the1.2 billion strong that certain Catholics like to claim the Church is comprised of.
You can’t possibly seriously expect us to believe that all of those 1.2 billion strong are faithfully practicing, church following Catholics? Your church is sure willing enough to consider them Catholics to the point of giving the likes of Kennedy a Catholic funeral.
And I’d lay money on the fact that they give Pelosi the same when her time comes.
Of course, if the Catholic church does not do anything abut those who you claim have ex-communicated themselves, it is beyond unconscionable and reprehensible on the part of the Church.