In the last 50 years I have not heard of any Catholic Church like the one you described. A sermon, you mean Mass, on hell and damnation? Never heard a Mass in my life like that. I wish I would. Mean nuns and a priest that beat you? Not saying discipline was not dished out. I got my ass beat regularly in school and it taught me respect and manners.
Are you sure you were not attending a sect that called themselves Catholic, one that was not in communion with the Catholic Church. There is a a lot of them out there.
I am just not familiar with that Catholic Church you describe. Maybe in the 16th century.
Immaculate conception school and church Omaha, Ne. Fr Ed and FR John During mass they give a sermon or a homily. 10-15 minutes of talking. My cousin Tony has strap marks on his back to this day. I was only picked up by my hair and another time slapped in front of everyone and put in a closet because the nun said I ate before communion. She overheard my grandmother ask if I had breakfast before school. I did not. I could go on.
Do you really believe what your saying or are you really that naive?