And you have not really answered my question.
I detect from most Novus Ordo types the need to include as many non-Catholics in the BOD framework when that was never the teaching of the Catholic Church. Not only did you say many (which by the way is defined as a lot, numerous, etc), but you also said you were SURE that they were saved.
I have dear family members who are non-Catholic. In fact, my parents are elderly and I’ll be lucky if they’re around another 5 years. How dare you suggest that I am one of the ones who “contemplate the delicious image of masses of souls, glowing from within like coals, tumbling in the raging fires of hell.”? For me, this isn’t about damning others. It is about speaking the Truth .... even if it hurts.
I hate when Novus Ordo types speak of BOD as if it’s not something very rare and difficult to obtain. I really hate it when priests, who should know better, do it.
I think we’re done here.
You keep ignoring that I keep mentioning that there have been BILLIONS of unbaptized persons since the time of Christ. I think it is reasonable to believe that “many” of those people have been saved. I have no idea how many that is. More than enough for a small dinner party, I should think.
If a person BELIEVES in the Catholic Church, he is obliged to join it. His “chances” of salvation if he refuses to join are 0%. If he does not believe in it, why should he give two figs what the Catholic Church holds on the matter?
In other words, the number or percentage of people who are saved by BoD is OF NO RELEVANCE to those baptized in the Catholic Church and of no relevance to those who DO NOT BELIEVE in the Catholic Church.
How a theological point that is irrelevant to every person on earth can assume such vital importance to some people is a mystery.