[metmom]

I think that American catholics have little in common with catholics in Mexico, central and South America, for instance.

And I would submit that it is the strong Protestant influence that prevented that.

Because Catholicism so easily goes into syncretism in areas where there is voo doo and superstition, etc, it would be here as well.

Matter of fact, the most superstitious people I knew were Catholics.

Look even at countries like Italy and Spain.

[Mark17]

aMatter of fact, the most superstitious people I knew were Catholics

That is certainly true here in the Philippines. Though they are some of the most hospitable people in the world, they are also some of the most superstitious. What I think is strange, is that the Iglesia Ni Cristo and the catholics hate each other, but their doctrines are virtually identical and both are very superstitious. I have asked both sides why the animosity, but no one could tell me why. It is just the way it is. One of the strangest superstitions they told me about, was to watch out or I would get pinched by a dwarf. I thought it was ridiculous, until I found out for sure what it was, but I figured it out in about 1/2 a second. It seemed to only happen in rural and remote areas, which is what I thought, for what I observed.

I do, however, get lots of chances to witness to catholics here. It is a never ending battle 😄

[CynicalBear]

>>Matter of fact, the most superstitious people I knew were Catholics.<<

Is it any wonder? They use holy water to scare away evil spirits and many other rituals just as the pagans do.