In order to prevent a recurrence of the horrors we witnessed in previous millennia, humanity as a whole must come to realize that our moral laws and ethical values emanate from a supreme deity that is far superior to human intelligence. The core reference points of right and wrong are universal, and are not up for interpretation or revision.
RABBI SIMCHA BACKMAN
Chabad Jewish Center
For me, as a Catholic, it is sad to see anyone separate himself from the Church Jesus founded. Christians are the largest religious group, about 33% of the world’s population. The next biggest group is Islam, about 21%, then Hindus at 14%.
According to the New Testament, the Church Jesus founded on the Apostles was to call all people to holiness and unity.
But sad to say down through the 20 centuries some groups separated from the Church. In the 4th century the Egyptians, Syrians and Armenians; in the 10th the Orthodox; and in the 16th the Protestants. Worldwide, Roman Catholics are 52% of all Christians and all those who separated are about 48%.
For the Christian, holiness is imitation of Christ, and faith is essential. Baptism makes Jesus our brother, and Mary our mother, and God our father, and we become brothers and sisters.
This connection to Christ comes through the preaching of the “twelve” and their successors. This connection, this Apostolic Succession, was crucial in teaching the good news.
“But how can they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how can they believe in him of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone to preach? And how can people preach unless they are sent?” (Romans 10:14-15) Jesus “appointed twelve (whom he also named apostles) that they might be with him and he might send them forth to preach;” (Mark 3:14 The New American Bible)
THE REV. GENE FRILOT
Incarnation Catholic Church
