Speaking as someone who is not a Roman Catholic, the attitude toward ecumenism outlined in this video is exactly why I follow this channel. Thank you Fr. Casey!
I went to school with Muslims and other faith groups and had periods to learn about God in our own ways. It was the best times of my life. Thanks Father Casey. May God keep blessing your ministry.
@TraditionalCatholicthoughts Salvation of Jesus Christ doesn't come from a building in Rome. Comes from God PERIOD. I could never Catholic . I would have to hate my country?
@TraditionalCatholicthoughts As much as I believe that Catholicism holds the fullness of Truth, I don’t think your approach is appropriate, though your tone is indeed benign and you have good intentions. Perhaps re-consider the main issue that you want to bring up when evangelising the Truth? Salvation, though can be effective, is more often than not a very sensitive topic that can appear to be offensive to some. Try probing them with the issue of the Eucharist, perhaps? It is a sacrament that is very dear to the heart of many Catholics, cradle and converts alike. To me, it is a major reason why I’ve remained a Catholic, and why I have reconnected to the Lord in ways never before. Thank you for reading this, I hope you would consider my suggestion.
I am protestant but I 100% agree. I was at an ecumenical thanksgiving service and it was just "let's be good and hope for good" like bruh why what's the point?
You can view Shahram Hadians YT on Chrislam. His YT is 5 years old and addresses the incompatibility of Islam and Christianity. Shahram was shunned by many top Christian leaders due to the Ecumenical movement promoted by many at the time. To wit, Yales document A Common Word Between Us and You which was signed by many leading Christian and Muslim leaders including Rick Warren among others. Shahram has since been vindicated. Recent works by Christian apologetics have imo have completely debunked the fraud of Mohammed and Islam. This has mainly occurred within the past year due to critical investigation of both coupled with Muslim apologetics forced to recently admit the Quran was not perfectly preserved and due to the fact that Arabic Christians are now active and are top apologists. Leading Christian YT apologetics are... Jay Smith (Pfander Films) Al Fadi (CIRA International) David Wood (Acts17Apologetics and Infinity Apologetics) Sam Shamoun (Shahmounian) Christian Prince (Christian Prince and various YT channels) Rob Christian (Rob Christian) Hatun Tash (DCCI Ministries)
The point is we seem to act more scornful to eachother then the ocean of atheists and islam. Like game of thrones characters fighting eachother with a sea of whitewalkers coming
I am cantholic and I am inspired by protestants, you are in favour of God and followers of Jesus. And thats what is taught in our Church - we are no better then protestants,. Why we we call ourselveves "us" and protestants "them"? Because we are corrupted humans.... Otherwise it would be just "us".
This reminded of a train trip I took while in Iran, from Tehran to Shiraz. My compartment mate and I got into a discussion about his faith and my faith. One a Catholic/Christian and the other a Shi'ite/Muslim. I learned how we actually both had a few commonalities in how we practiced our faith and the personal relationship we have with God. There were differences, sure. But it's the openness, revealing our own personal issues we have about the doctrines of our faith, and how we pray that we came to form a deep spiritual bond. The best way to describe it was that I felt that we were in communion with each through our belief in God, the same communion I have with my fellow Catholic brothers and sisters. The respect was there and in no way did we compromise on our expressions of our faiths. Rather we learnt from each other, eg I came to realise that I could be braver in approaching my local priests and discussing areas troubling me about what the church teaches or practices.
Very similar to a conversation that I had with a young Berber man in the Casablanca train station. A random street cat had wandered in, climbed onto my lap, and gone to sleep. While I wasn’t sure if this man spoke any English, I gave it a go, after noticing him laughing about the cat, and said, “Believe it or not, it’s not actually my cat!” The young man laughed, and said, “You speak English? You blend in with your beard, and you look like you could be Turkish!” We talked for awhile, mostly about our respective faiths, while I was busily stealing the free WiFi in the train station, to find last minute lodging after my Airbnb host canceled on me. Four years later, I’m still Facebook friends with him, and I still have an open invite to visit and stay with his family in their village!
Actually, that is a Catholic heresy to respect other religions. Just talking with some muslim doesn't tell you their doctrines anymore than talking to a random catholic, since they may not know theology, they know what is required for their station in life. You have no spiritual bond with a muslim, to say that is heresy. Only Catholics have a spiritual bond through having the same faith.
So True Fr. Cassey ,we need to let others know about our beautiful faith ,our teachings .. Im proud to be Catholic and I had been asked by two muslims , that celebrated Christmas mass with me, because they wanted to know about Christmas mass celebration and how we pray , They both were amazed and kept praising the church , how peaceful catholic priest just explaining what he read in bible, without preaching anything bad about no other religion . Simple the meaning of what he read on bible ..
It’s great be to able to serve as a good example and bring people closer to the true faith. But I don’t see a point in being “proud” about being a Catholic. Pride, really?
I was so happy to hear this. I was very nervous when I clicked and I was totally prepared to leave frustrated and sad. Stand firm, Father. I love you, and I thank you.
The point may be to resolve a social issue. 30 years ago as a pastor in a store front mission, I teamed with a rabbi and an Iman, to provide school clothes and supplies. Did we pray yes each to our own. Yet we were all children of Abraham . Bishop Hubbard visited and lent support as many of the youth we helped were diocesan students. That is the point.
The only "children of Abraham" are Christians. If you don't know Our Lord, you don't know Abraham. This is what Our Lord Explains in John 8. If you do not worship Him, you are not a child of Abraham. Open and shut case, because God shut the case. He told us this. Read the chapter
In John 8, 33Jesus is speaking to fellow Jews. Did you forget that Jesus is a Jew? The disciples were Jewish. In fact the book of Acts describes how many of the Church Fathers said you had to be circumcised before you could join the Church. Please study further.
@@Rytchord Are you being serious? Your heresy is the entire reason for Paul writing the letter to the Galatians who held to the same heresy that you hold to. 2 Behold, I Paul tell you, that if you be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing.3 And I testify again to every man circumcising himself, that he is a debtor to the whole law.4 You are made void of Christ, you who are justified in the law: you are fallen from grace.5 For we in spirit, by faith, wait for the hope of justice.6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision: but faith that worketh by charity.7 You did run well, who hath hindered you, that you should not obey the truth?8 This persuasion is not from him that calleth you.9 A little leaven corrupteth the whole lump.10 I have confidence in you in the Lord: that you will not be of another mind: but he that troubleth you, shall bear the judgment, whosoever he be.11 And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? Then is the scandal of the cross made void. Galatians 5:2-11 15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. Galatians 6:15 But contrariwise, when they had seen that to me was committed the gospel of the uncircumcision, as to Peter was that of the circumcision.8 (For he who wrought in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, wrought in me also among the Gentiles.)9 And when they had known the grace that was given to me, James and Cephas and John, who seemed to be pillars, gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship: that we should go unto the Gentiles, and they unto the circumcision:10 Only that we should be mindful of the poor: which same thing also I was careful to do.11 But when Cephas was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed. Galatians 2:6-11 Are you seriously suggesting that Our Lord's religion is the exact same as the Pharisees who founded Orthodox Judaism? That Christianity is not the religion of Christ but the religion of the Jews who reject him? The Jews no longer have a covenant with God, they have lost it. God's people are now his Church. What about Hebrews 11? Hebrews 11 is a testament to the works of faith, faith in *Christ Jesus.* Not in the Talmud which is blasphemous.
Murray Heresy, the circumcising issue was settled agreed, to say that Jesus is Jewish is not because He is. Jesus is out of the house of David that is the prophecy. Or are you saying Jews are not the seed of Abraham.
WOW. Very well put ! I been saying for years that many of these evangelical churches look more like nightclubs than churches. And just like nightclubs they cater only to the very young. Not that I have a problem with youth groups. They are good and have a important place. But it is like these Protestant churches exclude anyone over 35 it seems. Granted someone who is elderly and never been to church likely never will. But the church still must cater and reach out to ALL ages.
So Praising God means? Speaking Latin? Whats else? Believing Im literally eating flesh and blood? The Assumption of Mary that Mary was super magic and had no Sin? ? Mary (Human Female )got magically pregnant - I Think Ill stay in reality and view the Bible as rational , logical , reasonable and whats plausible , Rather than a Harry Potter magic book.
@Ahin Johny Then why isn't called the "Truth of Mary"? assumption (n.)Latin use (Cicero). Meaning "action of taking for oneself" is recorded from 1580s; that of "something taken for granted" Noun(1) a statement that is assumed to be true and from which a conclusion can be drawn(2) a hypothesis that is taken for granted(3) the act of taking possession of or power over something(4) celebration in the Roman Catholic Church of the Virgin Mary's being taken up into heaven when her earthly life ended; corresponds to the Dormition in the Eastern Orthodox Church(5) (Christianity(6) audacious (even arrogant(7) the act of assuming or taking for granted
I'm a Seventh Day Adventist and I enjoy watching your videos. It gives me a better understanding of your Christian faith and show the similarities and differences between mine.
we do have respect for other people. however we need to be honest: only the blood of Christ saves. He is the Way, the Truth and Life. i want to talk about God to convert hearts to His beauty.
Not going to work. Muslims aren't going to respond to attempted conversion. In fact, they are on the same conversion mission, thus you just rule each other out.
@@TimothyRCrowe Jesus says to take the Good News to the world. Tim Crowe says it won't work. Jesus says the Word never comes back void. Tim says it won't work. With all due respect, Imma follow Jesus.
Yes, I agree that only Christ is the only Way, that is what the Church teaches us! But also, the Body of Christ, his Church, is radically one. And so, unity and cooperation of goodwill among all Christians is precisely rooted in the unity of His one catholic and apostolic Church.
Nope. Do you realize that pretty much every single religion can say the same thing about their religion? What makes your belief the only true and right one? I'm a buddhist practitioner. I know and understand that unless you take refuge in the three Jewels, you will suffer again and again in Samsara. However, we need to undertand that no two persons are equal, why should their faiths be then? Embrace religious diversity.
Ecumenism can offer possibilities inter-religious dialogue doesn't. I would treat them as totally different. But I absolutely loved your focus on loving dialogue about differences. This is something I love about ecumenism: being able to dialogue. Making an effort to understand others, actually taking them seriously instead of just seeking their weak point. Doing your best to explain your faith in a simple but truthful way. Seeing Christ in other confession, what we have in common _through_ the lens of our differences. And while I don't agree with many of their beliefs, I can see my faith in perspective, understand it better, purify it... thanks to these beliefs. Other differences are not dogmatic, but of emphasis, liturgy or spirituality, and put together they become a precious shared treasure.
Be a sharp catholic, be as catholic as possible, follow the tradition of the church, follow the magisterium, avoid sins, and then interact with the world, evangelization will happen naturally, because people will see truth in you, be a saint, desire to be a true catholic saint. Saint Francis made the Muslim leader convert to the one true faith, never forget that's how that story ended...
When did Christ call you to be Catholic? Don't let the Church organization indoctrinate you. You should be looking to The Bible for your answers and guidance.
@@carpediem5232 you misunderstand what the word "Tradition" means in Catholicism. None of what you said has anything to do with Tradition. The only close one is the Inquisition but even that is only a part of Tradition in its office, not in its action.
@@rekeinserah The catholic church started with the killing and forceful conversion of other Christians (Arians etc.) and then pagans who didn't share the same interpretation. Yes there are Catholic Tradition (capitalized) he wrote "traditions of the church". I responded to the latter. You can tell me what you understand under Catholic Tradition and I'll respond to that also.
@@carpediem5232 The Church is a hospital for the sick. If you take this kind of reasoning you’ll end up questioning why Jesus picked Judas as a disciple. God works through broken people, a broken world. That does not make the killing of pagans right, but it does allows us to differentiate between the awful actions of some in the Church from actual Church teaching and Tradition. God bless.
Ummm, I don't know why, but, I rather enjoyed the b'ground music; nicely done and soft enough not to be to distracting. Thanks much Fr. Casey. Y'all Be Safe!
The bible never teaches ecumenism. It teaches that the gospel is to be preached to the lost....that whole great commission thing. He talked about learning from muslims or buddhists and sort of stopped there. I want to learn about other faiths so i can share the gospel and hopefully see them come to a saving relationship with Jesus. Our learning has to have a goal other than simply knowing about someone elses faith. Muslims need Jesus as do buddhists. No, ecumenism isn't the answer, the great commission is.
@John Coffey I agree that the Gospel needs to be preached with love in Truth. We can't effectively preach if OUR understanding of THEIR faith is inaccurate and "polemical". The problem is that modern ecumenism has definitely degenerated into a form of syncretism in line with the goals of the NWO. It's basically Rodney King's maxim "Why can't we all just get along", and sees religious differences as obstacles to "world peace" and a "one world government". In that atmosphere, Truth is sacrificed to a fake "peace".
@@guisan-jl8ix Not quite. If we were, we would still be in communion and wouldn't have very real differences in ecclesiology and how Bishops are elected. They are not appointed by a "super Bishop". They are elected by a Holy Synod, and are are ordained by multiple Bishops, in a "conciliar manner". There are also certain dogmas like Papal supremacy (immediate universal jurisdiction), Papal Infallibility, the Immaculate Conception, Purgatory, etc, in which Traditional Orthodoxy can't accept, unless they are, at least, restated to resolve those differences. BTW the 2 lung theory is just a restatement of the "branch theory" that was advocated by the Anglicans back in the 50's. In reality, it's either Roman Catholicism, with its Papacy, is true, or Orthodoxy and its "communion of local Churches", who share a common faith, submit to a common "Holy Tradition", including our chief hierarchs, AND are in communion with each other, is true. In Orthodoxy, the Holy Mysteries (Sacraments) belong to the Church, and aren't seen as a Bishop's personal "chrism", which he "keeps", even if he is a heretic and is formally condemned. Don't let Rome's "ecumenical enthusiasm" fool you, and don't assume that Orthodoxy shares the same theology as Rome, and is equally enthusiast by a "reunion" that doesn't address these differences, though there are segments in Orthodoxy that do, namely Ecumenical Patriarch Barfolomew, the "Green Patriarch". YUK!
@@louellecaldino506 You have it all wrong. I don't have a problem.addressing historical "wrongs", like the sack of Constantinople. We've done our share of them as well, and apologies are accepted. I talking about the REAL theological differences that Ecumenists, on both sides, want to minimize or ignore, for the sake of a "false union", which in good conscience, ANY good Catholic or Orthodox shouldn't ignore. "Pachamama" should sound off some warning bells for you about the nature of modern Ecumenism.
@@pravolub8 let me clarify those who are not in union with the See of Peter are not Orthodox and totally not Catholic. You even add more books in the canon of scripture that contradict the councils before. All The teaching of the Church are held and thought by the church fathers and apostles. You need to see the truth or you choose to be blind due to your arrogance or ignorance.
This reminds me of Richard Kearney's "Anatheism: Returning to God After God," which speaks a lot about the hostility or hospitality toward the stranger. I would recommend you take a look if you haven't already!
In 1987 the evening before Thanksgiving St. Thomas More parish in Baton Rouge hosted an Ecumenical Thanksgiving service (I think part of the reason was to show off the brand new church building to all the Baptists & Methodists in the area). Anyway, Bishop Ott was in attendance, & after the service blessed my 5-month old daughter. That was the very first night she slept all the way through the night. I suppose I’ve had a soft spot for these services ever since.
As a devoted Catholic, I was thought by my mom to always learn from other people of their religion and not try to persuade them to believe in my Catholic faith but instead tell them about it and why we practice the faith the way we do. Also to pray for the Holy spirit to give them understanding. If its the will of God they will join the faith. I really agree with Fr. Casey 100%, ecumenism is the way to really understand each other's religion and grow as one in the body of Christ.
Ecumenism is nonsense. There is No Salvation Outside the Church. Ecumenism gives the impression that all religions are equal. They are not! Catholicism is superior!
@Alex Carlson transfiguration or transubstantiation? Transfiguration is when Jesus's appearance changed. When God told the apostles to lead, gave them the keys to the kingdom and he wouldn't let the church fall, he gave Peter a special title. Peter's position has been passed down after his death as the bishops of Rome aka the Pope. He is not God. All structures benefit from leadership, and the church is no different. Yes, God guides and protects the church from total failure, but having a person to help lead is not wrong and he is not God. He sins like the rest of us. Mary gave birth to Jesus and had great faith. The early church fathers believed she was always a virgin and was taken up to heaven. The saints are God's people. The faithful including those living and those who are in heaven are all God's people. God told us to pray for one another, and this commandment doesn't need to stop simply because someone died, so we pray for one another. Prayer is communication. Saints are not God and they shouldn't be prayed to as God, but we can request them to pray for us as we pray for them. Of course we do not need the saints to pray, but God told us to pray for one another and we are community-based creatures. He gave us this resource. Shouldn't we use it? Mary is one of them too. You may ask, how can we know who is in heaven? Well we know the Bible says many prophets are in heaven. It also says martyrs have a special place in heaven somewhere, and also Jesus told the thief he'd be with him in paradise. We know of a few confirmed people in heaven because of this. Any more questions? I have a question for you. What faith are you from? I'm catholic.
Padre, my Saudi friend and I talk about our faiths, and I say to him, 'mate, I'm pretty sure this is the true faith and I want you to know it, but I also don't want any harm to be caused to you, so we'll complain about how catholic music has become deranged, how arabic melodies sound like coptic melodies, how we sorta believe in the same stuff, but then muslims don't believe in the divinity of Jesus and then I say mate, you people make good Biryani, and then he says, they only make that in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Iran, and I'll be like you've got the good camel meat, and he'll be like, that's right, then we'll talk about how we both need to improve our knowledge of maths, to understand mechanics'. I hope you get the point. But neither of us call this ecumenism, we just do this, so that we don't understand each others faith with misconceptions. I just love the way that he is actually sincere to his faith, unlike many catholics and I just wish many catholics would take the same interest that he takes in catholicism and I take in islam. God Bless you Padre, and your great work.
Brother, you are actually doing what Jesus requested of ALL of His disciples. Live the Christ life in such a way that our words, actions, mind, heart and soul line up in conformity with Jesus operating in and through us and bring glory to God. That, is what God uses to love your friend into His kingdom. You are on the right path. Ecumenism used to mean when all CATHOLIC parts of The Body came together (As an Ecumenical Body/Council) to discuss CHURCH thoughts, issues, needs, work etc. Now ecumenism means Catholics having a conference with non-catholics and pretending we are all one big happy family and everyone is going to heaven in whatever way they "FEEL" is right for them. Ever hear of "you have your truth and I have my truth" (aka relativism... fancy word for everyone is their own god and decides for themselves). I have a funny feeling if Jesus showed up at a modern ecumenical event, He might kick some tables over because the Catholics there have done one thing in the name of relativism: cloaked the Gospel in a mantle of confusion. I could be wrong, but my gut says otherwise. Might be bit of underdone potato, I'm just a catholic of no reputation trying to follow Jesus in my bit of this crazy postmodernist world.
I am only interested in Ecumenism with Christians of other denominations and perhaps Jews. The rest of the faiths of the world have so little in common with The Catholic Church's teachings that it's entirely pointless to speak with them.
I can attest that, it was precisely through my deep friendship and dialogue with born-again evangelical and atheist friends that my Catholic Christian faith was strengthened. Not watered down! Catholic ecumenism is much the same. Just on a larger scale. All who profess Christ are called back to be part "of the whole" (i.e. Gr. katholikos).
This is an honest and informative exposition of “ecumenism” as it is currently practised. My own family’s experience with ecumenism as practised by some contemporary Catholic institutions, however, points to an aspect that was not touched on or addressed in the video. We noticed through our sons’ experience of senior high school at a Jesuit-run prep school (that is partly supported by public i.e. secular funds) that students of all faiths were treated with equality and respect; indeed it was repeatedly emphasized that it was the very fact of membership in a “faith community” of whatever description that provided this essential respect. However, failing to affirm any supernatural beliefs or membership in any “faith community” conferred a subtly, but quite noticeably, lesser status. As we experienced it, contemporary Catholic ecumenism amounts to acting on the conviction that “professing a faith” - any faith - is inherently superior to non-belief in anything supernatural. Thankfully, in today’s Canada this does not appear to have any further consequences in the wider society.
Not professing a faith should have negative consequences. Everyone has a faith. People would not get out of bed in the morning without the faith that getting out of bed would make their lives better. Not professing a faith usually means not knowing what one's actual faith is. Ignorance almost always has consequences.
@@jwrosenbury Yes, of course, “people would not get out of bed without the faith that getting out of bed would make their lives better”. I thought that it was clear from the context I set that I was using the expression “professing a faith” as a conventional shorthand for “professing a faith in a belief system with essential supernatural entities or phenomena“ or, if you prefer, “professing a ‘religious’ faith”. As part of our common humanity I have, for example, faith in the universal validity of the Golden Rule ... and will “profess” this faith. I trust you are not suggesting that my or anyone else’s “not professing a ‘religious’ faith“ (i.e. failing to be persuaded of the supernatural) ... “should have negative consequences”. Then, we would again be on the path to persecuting ‘heretics’.
@@shaber9 It is difficult to know someone's faith without communicating with them. Most people have faith in usefulness. By that I mean they define the world by how they use things in it. A person might easily recognize a table as somewhere to set things for example. Some people have faith in science. They might define a table as being a certain height, being made of a certain material, etc. Engineers are like that. Religious people often believe in sacrifice. A table becomes an alter where we give something of value in the hope of a new world. This belief in sacrifice is a surprisingly common pattern of thought in all cultures throughout history. In fact it seems to be a defining trait of humans. Drawing a line and saying you believe in the golden rule, but not "religion" seems like an arbitrary way to divide the world to me. Do you see the sacrifice the golden rule requires? Doesn't that make it a religion? Or is "religion" just unfounded superstition that other people believe in to you?
As always a well thought, well argued video. I hope you don't take the comments guys to heart, every community has its toxic 'fans' and unfortunately social media allows them free rein. You (ann other Catholic you tubers) are doing more to evangelise and spread the word than toxic comment guys ever could.
Agreed! But also, in true Christian fashion, the brave and prudent among us may be able to use these moments to teach and correct, and perhaps even learn a bit themselves
Ecumenism gone wrong looks like this: You and everyone else are sitting at the bottom of a well, but everyone else has missing limbs while you have all four. But instead of climbing out the well and grabbing a rope you decide to saw your legs off to be like everyone else. That is not what you should do, use your experiences to minister to those around you, regardless of denomination, faith, or culture.
Ironically, these are the very problems I see in weekly church and general Christian fellowship. There is so much politeness and PC that there is no substance to the conversations and as a result, there is no impetus to actually go out and create change.
This is the first time I agree with everything that you said Fr. Casey. We do not evolve if we agree on everything, it is by learning the differences and understanding we grow.
Thoughtful and insightful, as always. As a practitioner of a different faith, I watch your videos for many of the reasons you discussed here - learning about different perspectives is essential to growth and development. I can say that your commentary has expanded not only my understanding of Catholic doctrine, but has also helped me to better define my own views. Thank you for your content; please keep up the good work.
Dear brother to share your faith in meaningful way that is a mighty mission but when no one else can understand what is your religion way or metaphor that is becoming harder and harder for us . Thankx my bro I hope that you can see my comment and understand my point. Pray for a better life for all .
Bismillah, I am a Roman Catholic Christian like Fr. Casey, I think that He may be suggesting that in Interfaith Dialogue, We can learn more when We share what is important about our Faith to others. Don't hide it to smooth over differences but maybe We can learn from each other, While solidly remaining in our Chosen Faith. Allah Akbar! Subhan Allah!, John
You hinted at it with the anecdote about St. Francis, but engaging with the beliefs of others gives us insight that can be used to enhance our own understanding of our own faith. Afterall, it was reading the Bhagavad Gita that started me on the path that led me here. Even if I don't accept the theological convictions of Hinduism devotionally, the insight that book gave me proved invaluable.
Thanks for bringing this topic up Father Casey, I think you address the problem but I don't think you laid out a solution. Your solution seems to be that you want to learn more about other peoples' faiths but you then add a qualification that you do this from a point of view of wanting others to know about your faith in conformity with Dominus Iesus which says all ecumenism must be directed towards converting those outside of the Church. This video could very well be called "Dominus Iesus" for it seems to present the same point of view as that document. But like that document, I think there are some problems. Fundamentally, if this is the purpose of ecumenism then what makes ecumenism distinct from simple apologetics? There we see a difference is highlighted, and then debated upon. We are the only religion that is completely true and the only one where God actively works through the Holy Spirit, and so if our argument is put forward correctly, the faith will prevail. Apologetics works, it's the only thing that worked before the 1960s. It converted entire continents. It converted me. This is not to say that there can't be major abuses. For example, look at modern anti-Muslim apologetics which is basically functioning as shocking people into becoming Christians through insults and profanity and utilizes extremely uncharitable techniques. But look at the counter-reformation writings by our Saints which are incredibly charitable, or see our modern Catholic apostolates that are charitable. And the best part is they work. The whole point of ecumenism was to say that this process is wrong. It was to say that everyone ought to find their similarities and it assumed that this would mean that everyone would come together. This didn't work, in fact, nothing happened and so we watered down our beliefs in hopes of something happening. That just made it even worse and was a major contribution to the current vocational and mass attendance crisis. So really I have two questions for you. What is the difference between your vision of ecumenism and charitable apologetics? And If they are different, why is there a necessity for ecumenism rather than charitable apologetics?
Very interesting and good points! I may not agree completely, but I nod to a lot of your points. Personally, I don't have a very good answer to those questions yet. But I think that ecumenism really is more for developing goodwill and deepening one's faith and reason. One could also propose that ecumenism and apologetics are two sides of the same coin! That they should always go together. I also feel that there needs to be a correction of people who distort or misunderstand the purpose of ecumenism.
As an ecumenist working for a Catholic religious society I really enjoyed this video. It reminds me of JPII's emphasis on ecumenism as a mutual exchange of gifts". Great work!
In other words, you would say ecumenism takes seriously the claim of Catholicism that man can know God not only by grace but also by reason. It treats a person as if he could seriously think about religion. Whereas proselytism and interreligious dialogue does not.
Now now. It also recognizes that reasons has limits. It isn't on the same level as God's Grace. In fact, the reason we can know God through reason at all is due to His Grace.
@@dmitriykinzhebulatov Reason does have its limits which is why we need divine revelation. But reason can take us as far as coming to know who has divine revelation. The normal man who does not even know that God exists either lacks the power of reason or, having reason, lacks something normal, necessary, and natural to men. His ignorance is vincible. And it is his own fault, and/or the fault of the men around him - not of God - that he is ignorant even of God. Sufficient grace for even knowledge of God cannot be wanting.
Brother Casey, this is why I call you Father, Just like their fathers, sons think alike their fathers, and I see quite a number of youths growing up in this generation getting fed up with the apathetic view of religion and especially Christianity, our previous generations would rather avoid conversations in fear of confrontations where I seek those who want to share their thoughts. and just like you I've been into some engagements with Protestants, Muslims, Hindus and Bahai's hosted by our Jesuit Chaplain with me representing the more Hardline Catholic wing since I share many views with the SSPX. I feel like it's so uncomfortable, we're all at the edges of our seats to not offend each other with our customary compliments complimenting other religions, and it seems like there's this unspoken rule that we're not allowed to ask more than what we feel might offend others and it feels like a pre programmed conversation that we always knew the outcome. I pray that the Holy Spirit would guide more Catholic youths to be inspired to be more curious about our own faith. Keep up the Good work, With Love from Italy :)
I really like this new set. The books, the bricks, the icon-ic pictures to your left--they all really work for me. This sort of thing is important; without it, you have just a podcast or radio show. From my experience, I think it is vital for Catholics to learn more about other faiths and to be willing to discuss their own. Knowledge is more than power; it is holy.
Father, for me this is a very apt video. Born and raised Catholic, attending 16 years of Catholic schools, no one ever taught me "This is what most protestants/jews/muslims/etc believe, and this is why we do not agree and have something different and very much more....." If I would have had that single class, I believe my entire life might have been different. Instead, for years, I held beliefs like, "We all [Christians] worship the same thing." It wasn't until something grabbed me (I'd like to think it was the Holy Spirit) and gave me the gumption to research on my own, re-discovering my faith. Last year, I went to my first confession in 40 years. To this day, I believe we must improve Catholic instruction. Thank you again.
Jesus did NOT send out his apostles and disciples to “engage in dialogue” with pagans and non believers but to go out to all the ends of the world , baptizing all people in the Name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost. Sitting around, singing cumbayá and exchanging personal views on your “beliefs” is NOT what the Lord had in mind. What has happened to our missionary spirit, the dogma that there is no salvation outside the Church? Ignoring that is not Christian. This attitude that all religions are the same is a heresy and is a main reason why the Catholic flock continues to shrink.
Those leaving the church know why they do so? I am NOT going to find Jesus (God) somewhere else just because there are ‘sinners’ in my Catholic Church! Pagans are sinners, aren’t they? Spread the good news to all God chooses as He wills, I believe.
Jesus engaged in dialogue with the woman at Jacob's well. She explained the difference between her people and the Jews, and Jesus explained the truth in a way that led her to conversion. I'd call that a fruitful ecumenical dialogue in which Jesus was clearly engaged.
The way “engaging in dialogue “ is used here in this video is a friendly exchange of ideas and personal beliefs. Jesus did NOT engage in such talk. He “Spoke with authority,” as no one of his hearers, be they Pharisees or Sadducees or pagans had ever heard. Jesus is the TRUTH, as He is the only Way to God the Father, and He is the Life everlasting, gift of the Holy Ghost. When He spoke to the Samaritan woman He was converting her. His questions were as arrows to her soul, to probe her heart so as to prepare the way for her conversion. He opened her understanding and heart to the Truth, to Himself. The apostle and missionaries of old did this and the Gospel spread throughout the world like wildfire. Now, the “ecumenical spirit “ of the post Vatican II Church brings us empty pews and the pachamamas. And worldwide the Protestant denominations are vacuuming up what’s left of once vibrant Catholic nations. Look no further to any Latin American country to see our declining numbers. Sad.
In a nutshell I think, the problem isn't ecumenism, but that we misunderstand its meaning and purpose. It's precisely the radical uniqueness and oneness of Mother Church that compels us to draw other Christians back towards us! By bridging and dialogue, starting with whatever is true and holy in other Christian groups. It's two-way in goodwill and culture, but only one-way in doctrine and unity. In the words of Jesus, "ut unum sint" (Jn 17). Also, ecumenism should not be confused with interreligious dialogue! The former applies just to other Christian denominations.
Fr. Casey, Your enery and love for your calling in Christ is truly inspiring. I encourage you to learn about the life of Fr. Christian Mondor, OFM. I think when you visited our Saints Simon and Jude Catholic church in Huntington Beach, Fr. Christian had already passed away. Although he didn't produce any social media, there are RUclips videos with him and about him, plus Friars in California who knew this saint of a man very well. I'd suggest talking with your brothers at the Old Mission Santa Barbara. Blessings to you...
I can tell almost none have been in the US. Military, when There was no Catholic Chaplin around the other Chaplains step up and ministered to me. I have nothing against people if others faiths one of my friends was Muslim and a Mormon. I was taught to respect other people's right to belivie in their own faiths .
Reminds me of the time when St Paul and St Peter hung out with all the pagan priests and priestesses and said: "Wow, your religious temple prostitution and the plethora of so many unusual, interesting gods and goddesses really teach me things about a new approach to worshipping that I might learn from." Yeah, didn't happen.
I am from Bavaria (Germany) were some bishops started to give communion to protestants. Consequently many catholics do not belive Jesus is in the eucharisti becouse even people in the state of sin (especially non catholics) are allowed to receive him.
I think talking to people from a different background makes the world a better place. A lot of ill feelings towards other groups usually arise from stereotypes. There is fruit to be found in talking to other groups, but focusing on the similarities leads to a disingenuous dialogue where every party comes to the table with a muzzle on what they can say. How can we learn about others if you can’t talk about the main tenants of your faith. Really well thought out video Brother!
Thank you Fr. Casey. I personally have experience different religions, not because i wanted to find a true religion but because i wanted to know if they really believed in God.My search turned out to be very interesting,maybe one day i will talk to you about it.
Real Ecumenism is about addressing differences, not avoiding them. Well done and well said. "... the next best thing to being really inside Christendom is to be really outside it." - G.K. Chesterton, "The Everlasting Man" " It is the contention of these pages that while the best judge of Christianity is a Christian, the next best judge would be something more like a Confucian. The worst judge of all is the man now most ready with his judgements; the ill-educated Christian turning gradually into the ill-tempered agnostic, entangled in the end of a feud of which he never understood the beginning, blighted with a sort of hereditary boredom with he knows not what, and already weary of hearing what he has never heard. He does not judge Christianity calmly as a Confucian would; he does not judge it as he would judge Confucianism. He cannot by an effort of fancy set the Catholic Church thousands of miles away in strange skies of morning and judge it as impartially as a Chinese pagoda." - G.K. Chesterton, "The Everlasting Man"
I agree. Ecumenism is most valuable when the conversation includes the differences. Each tradition is then able to gain from the others, see what they already have from a new angle, etc. When we delve into the differences, the similarities naturally also surface, but when we focus only on the similarities, we gain nothing, not even an increased understanding of each other. (signed, a certified lay servant in the United Methodist Church whose response to ministry call is supported through regular association with Gaudiya Vaishnavas, through one of whom God spoke to pull me out of a wilderness state to a second awakening of faith in Christ.)
I have been blessed to live in a neighborhood where I have neighbors that are Hasidic and Catholic, Baptist, Protestant and Muslim. I never really had to work hard to teach my children to know and respect other religions. We find kindness and acceptance is better than trying to say one is better than another. There is always something in common and something to discuss but never argue about but I like just seeing each other as human beings who are going through life as best we can and being the best example of our religion. I've been challenged and that's good. And I have found our "fasting" rules are pretty good compared to others. ; )
For me this is why i believe that ecumenical meetings should thrive, Despite our divergent interpretations of the Bible regarding Jesus Christ's life and guidance on how to live, we share a common faith in Him as Christians. This unity binds us together, even as we attend different churches.
For me, I summed up ecumenism from the wise words of Milton Friedman "Judge public policies by their results, not their intentions" Same thing here with ecumenism "Don't judge ecumenism by its intentions, but rather by its results" Question: What is the result now?
Well said brother. The source of the feeling that our world is divided, our communities are divided can, in my opinion, be tracked down the obsession on iclusivity. A follower of Jesus knows that we are all different with our unique talents that are there to be shared with others to enrich everyone.
Many years ago i attended a small town synagogue in Missouri. They regularly hosted interfaith panel discussions and events with local representatives of bahai, Muslim, Buddhist, and Christians (almost invariably Episcopalian). The events were always sans prayer but were really heavy on serious intellectual discussion which is always enjoyable, and a tour of the host congregations worship space. The one part i regretted most about it was the shocking lack of depth as to the plurality of expressions within each tradition. They would try to speak for everyone, almost always incorrectly. I was always saddened that both the catholic and orthodox churches refused to participate. So that's one model but here's one i actually prefer. A few years ago the shul i attend now was having a major renovation. It was scheduled to be complete in time for tisha b'av, but as invariably goes for major renovation work it drug on months later. We planned to rent tents and hold the high holiday services in the parking lot. Hearing of this the church across the street leased us their space and even turned off and on the sound system for us so we wouldn't violate the commandments. The shul i attended in college leased the social hall to a catholic church that had been destroyed by fire. For a full year (interestingly although we didn't ask them to, they used matzos during passover so as not to inadvertently leave chometz in our space). I know of one synagogue in ny that permanently shares a space with a mosque. In college myself and several other members of Hillel would man the catholic soup kitchen on christmas and sunday mornings. We can meet in a stuffy room, or the trenches so to speak.
Standing ovation, father! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 I agree 100% I am an atheist from a catholic family. I love this channel for everything I learn about life and the culture of my family and country. My exgirlfriend is Muslim and I took every chance I got to ask her about Allah and the prophet Muhammad, their celebrations, rituals and traditions. My best friend is a Protestant and he always has something to teach me. It is not about who has the best religion or the best God or the correct viewpoint, it is about all we can learn from each other and make our lives, traditions and actions better so we can build a better future for everyone.
Explain to me this - I am a member of the Church of England. The Church of England doesn't accept the Marian doctrines of Immaculate Conception, The Assumption or her intercession. We do not accept the doctrine of transubstantiation in Holy Communion. We believe clergy should be allowed to marry and have families if they so wish. We don't believe in purgatory. We don't believe in indulgences. We don't believe in praying to saints who intercede for us. That is a small part of what we differ on. So, please explain to me, how I a member of the Church of England will ever be united with your Roman Catholic Church? I look forward to your reply very soon.
Dear Father Casey. Explain to me this - I am a member of the Church of England. The Church of England doesn't accept the Marian doctrines of Immaculate Conception, The Assumption or her intercession. We do not accept the doctrine of transubstantiation in Holy Communion. We believe clergy should be allowed to marry and have families if they so wish. We don't believe in purgatory. We don't believe in indulgences. We don't believe in praying to saints who intercede for us. That is a small part of what we differ on. So, please explain to me, how I a member of the Church of England will ever be united with your Roman Catholic Church? I look forward to your reply.
I agree, I see your point, it does in a way water down conversation, I like how it does avoid controversy or making others angry, I like the unifying idea of it but it does cover up the main issue, it needs to improve.
You've grown up in a country where religious tolerance is essentially the norm...for most of the world "regressing to the lowest common denominator" is a solution to literally prevent inter-faith violence. I lived in Belfast and Derry (Northern Ireland) for three years during the troubles, and I can assure you the efforts at ecumenism between catholics and protestants there at the time may have been able to save lives and prevent suffering.
I am a strong believer in ecumenical and inter faith dialog and inter action, as I firmly believe that not all the wisdom of God is to be found it just one sacred book and that God is known by many names and in many ways. We must be willing to be open to The Spirit speaking to us through these traditions but remain true to our own faith and belief structures as this is where and how God is revealing himself to us and inviting us to reflect Him to the world , as we are all call to a personal relationship with The Most High however we understand him to be . As Christian we are born into a tradition firmly rooted in our Jewish heritage . We are all created as spiritual vessels who must reflect all that The Artist wishes to express through us (Ephesians 2:10), some vessels have great capacity to be filled with faith (spiritual egg cup or bucket ) but have equally the fullness of faith. Let us then rejoice in and learn from the traditions of all God’s people and be proud to known and understand Him as He has been revealed to us and share with others how we know ,love and serve Him.
I always preface my comments here with saying I'm not a Catholic. Part of the reason I stumbled into this channel was because I wanted to learn to respect Catholics. It's really helped me understand what I believe and what beliefs don't work for me. I currently consider myself an independent (non-denominational I guess) Christian, as I recently literally moved. One of the most annoying parts of being in the comment section on Father Casey's videos is that someone usually tells me I need to convert. I don't know if he remembers, because it was awhile ago, but I actually messaged Father Casey (back before he was ordained) on Facebook a few times, and even he agreed Catholism wasn't the right fit. I love learning and interfaith discussion. He's an engaging teacher. It's not always about conversion. My soul, my spirit, and my relationship with Christ are fine. I just find the comparisons between what I was taught when I became a Christian, what I believe now, and Catholic teachings fascinating.
This RUclipsr... And father... And guy. Is very diplomatic in almost everything he talks about. It is very sad to see such a comment section even here. I have rediscovered Catholism and prayer through the Divinum Officium this year but... I don't even want to dare saying my heartily faith in here.
I always appreciate your comments and thank you for your willingness to be vulnerable with your questions about. Certainly there are commenters that I would prefer just remain silent. Just to clarify what I may have said back then (for your sake and for others who may read this): I think that Catholicism professes the fullness of truth and that it is universal to all peoples. Everyone can find a home in it and I hope everyone does. My suggestion that Catholicism might not be a good fit for you was simply an acknowledgment of your current state in life and particular questions, not a suggestion of relativism or deficiency of Catholicism. My thought were that, right now, joining the Church may not be the best thing for you. In the future, however... as you grow, as we grow in our ability to answer your specific questions a bit better, I think that you could find the ultimate answer to all of the most important questions here.
Even I, who am a Catholic, feel annoyed when Catholics do that in RUclips comments, almost more than when Protestants do it. Can't you be interested in something without wanting to convert?? Besides, who ever converts because someone said so? "Catholicism have the fullness of truth", great, but shouldn't that be something people _discover_ instead of a catchphrase to feel orthodox? I'm happy to have you as a "guest" in "Catholic land". I hope you can ignore them without feeling too uncomfortable, and that you might convert *only* if someday you're freely convinced our faith is true. PS: Just finished reading "Catholics and Protestants: what can we learn from each other" by Peter Kreeft. By Protestants he means Evangelical/low church Protestantism, and you have to be aware it's written for Catholics, so it can feel a bit condescending for a Protestant. But I love and recommend it!
@@jayjaykay111 No offense but this looks like the entire reason why Romans and Orthodox broke up. (I say looks, haven't actually studied the history of where we F'd up as a continent)
@@jayjaykay111 oh I'm transgender. Or more precisely I've been diagnosed with gender dysphoria. I actually haven't actually transitioned due to having struggled due to a disability caused by an accident for a little bit and of course trying to figure out what role God plays in all of this. And I'm, as of March, an involuntarily restricted Mormon.
I think that diversity is something to be celebrated and discussed as opposed to just saying “we’re all the same” or that “we all believe the same theology” because that’s just not true. That doesn’t mean we need to go start another crusade, but that does mean that we need a new conversation. How can people with different faiths lovingly interact and produce good fruit in the world? What does that look like? Interfaith dialogue gives people the opportunity to explore Christianity and also gives Christians the opportunity to see how God works in the world and reaches people in different ways. I think this is how conversion works. It comes from having honest conversations about differences, not just insisting that we’re all the same or worse, threaten others with hellfire if they don’t convert. Conversion is a personal journey of faith and it can be enriched by people of other perspectives while maintaining its identity. Ultimately, people are gonna have to make the choice of what they believe for themselves and nothing we tell them is going to change them. But people need to have the distinct, Christian option to choose. Otherwise, they’ll never consider what Christianity has to offer. We are Christian for a reason and I think that’s a beautiful thing. Awesome upload once again! 🍃
Is there anyone who has experience with communities like Chemin Neuf? Specifically this one is originally from France, nowadays it's in many countries. Their mission is to connect different Christians (Catholics, Protestants, Orthodox) and take place events mainly for young people, pray together and worship God. What is your point of view on this?
It's wonderful we can get past deep-seated animosity towards people who have other religions and be charitable to one another, (and I don't want to go back to any other alternative). What concerns me however are when JW's and Mormons draw in converts from all over the world with their efforts by the thousands. Especially in prior predominant Catholic countries like in Latin America. Not all religions are the same or equal in truth. Truth can be self-evident in certain regards and therefore be found in many other teachings. Like the "Golden Rule" (Matt. 7:12) can be found in virtually every religion with decent people. But yet, the Catholic Church has the fullness of truth. We Catholics shouldn't compromise that fact. Thank you, Fr. Casey for your great video.
I'm an atheist -- though my Christian wife claims I am agnostic. Nevertheless I find religion to be an interesting construct and not without value to humanity regardless of whether or not God exists. I was raised Catholic through my first 15 years as well. These are all interesting presentations.
Keep asking questions and searching my friend! I was an Atheist for many years as well, just keep researching and maybe you’ll be lead to the Catholic Faith
My professor of canon law once said something along the lines of: "The problem is, there are so many joint declarations (meaning declarations between Churches) - but they mostly keep piling up in drawers instead of being put into action..."
I think we (Christians) DO have more in common than we usually think. I hope you'll do a follow-up and describe something you actually did gain from an ecumenical encounter. I loved the bit about what St. Francis learned from his encounter with Muslims! Thank you.
Brother Casey I agree with you. I know I have trouble with any dialogues about differences whether religious or otherwise. You provide a great guide - to be ourselves and encourage honest discussions.
I am in a Protestant Bible Study. It’s not as though I don’t think they are Christian, or that they aren’t saved, but at best, their perspective on Christianity, especially their terminology, is like looking at a very distorted mirror.
had the discussion with people that all religions are the same or are in the end the same... "They all want the same".... That is just wrong. It is not even something where we can different opinions... A Hindu and a Catholic, A Buddhist and a Jew, a Sikh and a Muslim are not the same. Non parring of these are the same. The Judeo-Christian beliefs are close to one another and all religions have an Ethic system behind them, but they are not the same because of that. Thanks for pointing that out. I think that it is important to speak with one another and that it is important to see one another not as enemies but as Friends. That does not mean we have to agree with one another on everything or overlook our differences. We should find ways to smooth over radical positions of converting one another and so on. An example of that working fine is the Veshak messages from the Vatikan. I like to read them. I as a Buddhist like this friendly message and it is followed by something that the pope finds important in the world and asking to pray for it. It is just a nice friendly coexisting without having to pretend we would not be different. We can work together without becoming like one another. But as a person of special position in the religious community, it is Important to signal that we can be friends. If not tribalism can overcome all of us. What starts as a rivalry can then soon be a religious war.
Thanks, great message! I am part of an ecumenical Christian community, and we have Jesus and baptism in common, which allows us to live life in Christ together in every way except Church worship and sacraments. That is, we serve each other, have meals and celebrate together, help each other move, bring meals when we are sick, and meet in small men’s and women’s groups. We do worship God together by singing and praying in the Spirit. We also talk about our differences, but always in respectful ways and never to try to convert each other. This is extremely rich and fruitful and I find it makes people committed to their own church denominations even more, while increasing their respect for the strengths and contributions of the others. It also happens that other Christians, like my own husband, sometimes become Catholic because of how they see us as brothers and sisters and have a chance to know each other and share life. I love how you describe the round table discussions at your college! Yes!
Dear Father Casey, what about this phrase: "Outside the Church there is no salvation" (extra ecclesiam nulla salus)? “The holy universal Church teaches that it is not possible to worship God truly except in Her and asserts that all who are outside of Her will not be saved.” -Pope Saint Gregory the Great (590-604). This is a dogma of faith, right? Could you explain a little more? Thanks and peace and good.
I'm not entirely sure what that question has to do with this video... The point of Ecumenism and interreligious dialogue is not to deny our faith or accept others', but to grow in understanding (and maybe even evangelize.) That said, the historical line that you quote requires an understanding of its cultural context. I made a video about it a few years ago: ruclips.net/video/8d5nZ3qdVtU/видео.html
The doctrine has been interpreted a couple different ways throughout Church history, but the view espoused by the catechism is that (1) only the Catholic Church has the FULLNESS of salvation and truth, but many faiths have “seeds of the Word” that still have some lesser truth and salvific power-especially other branches of the Abrahamic and Christian family tree, as all Abrahamic faiths worship the one true God, and all trinitarian Christians at least have a valid Baptism if no other sacraments (some have more, others have less) so are members of Christ’s mystical body even if they are born into an atrophying limb of that body not receiving the full blood required to sustain it. (2) When the doctrine was first formulated it was formulated with the idea that all the ends of the Earth had already heard the good news, so everyone was making a conscious or unconscious choice to be or not be Christian (since the Catholic Church was the only Christian Church in Europe at the time) as our view of the world has widened, it has become ever the more clear that the Christian message has not reached many places and been garbled or misinterpreted to the point of unrecognizability in many others, and someone who is legitimately ignorant of the truth of Christianity, either by not knowing the gospel period or by knowing only a crude, unpersuasive straw effigy of the Church constructed by the Church’s enemies (such as the impressions of the Church that many atheists and protestants are fed) God will not punish them for their ignorance; but of course if someone realizes the Catholic Church is the one true Church, they have a moral duty to act on that knowledge if they wish to be saved. (3) We really have no idea about what will happen salvation-wise with regards to the second coming, second march through Hell and final judgement, and while it will be “very soon” we also know it has been “very soon” for over 2000 years. We only know they will happen and that God is perfectly loving and perfectly just, that the Church will be perfected with him, and that Sin will be vanquished forever. And while there will likely still be “outside the Church...no savation” who will be part of that finally transformed Church is another question entirely, one we cannot answer in this life.
@@IONATVS Notice how you don't even cite anything. Just your own opinions. Here is what the church rather says. No, there are no seeds in other faiths, they might have some truth to them, but everyone in them is saved despite them, not because of them. The gods of the Gentiles are demons. The others are heresies and schisms. “We declare, say, define, and pronounce that it is absolutely necessary for the salvation of every human creature to be subject to the Roman Pontiff.” (Pope Boniface VIII, the Bull Unam Sanctam, 1302.) “The most Holy Roman Church firmly believes, professes and preaches that none of those existing outside the Catholic Church, not only pagans, but also Jews and heretics and schismatics, can have a share in life eternal; but that they will go into the eternal fire which was prepared for the devil and his angels, unless before death they are joined with Her; and that so important is the unity of this ecclesiastical body that only those remaining within this unity can profit by the sacraments of the Church unto salvation, and they alone can receive an eternal recompense for their fasts, their almsgivings, their other works of Christian piety and the duties of a Christian soldier. No one, let his almsgiving be as great as it may, no one, even if he pour out his blood for the Name of Christ, can be saved, unless he remain within the bosom and the unity of the Catholic Church.” (Pope Eugene IV, the Bull Cantate Domino, 1441.) Invincible ignorance is indeed a thing, but even if the person thinks that it might be so and refuses to look more into it, they no longer have it. Also, you know we don't refer to salvation as being the second coming. What are you even talking about? Quote something at least, you are not the Church, nor are you the pope.
This one of the few times where I must disagree with Fr. Casey. One of the leading religious thinkers of the 20th century, Rabbi Dr Joseph Soloveitchick, opppsed interfaith dialogue but only when it involved a discussion of the religious principles of each faith community. He felt that the language used by each faith community could be understood only within that faith community. Outside of the community, the words used may be meaningless or mean something so different that no discussion is possible. It is therefore best to avoid the effort, no matter how well intentioned it may be.
I agree with the other Christians in these comments regarding the LORD Jesus Christ. I am a Protestant. I am ready to pull out, "Dominus Iesus," by Cardinal Ratzinger, (aka. Pope Benedict XVI), and his book, "The Church as Communion," to state that we will not compromise on the fact that the LORD Jesus Christ is God Almighty come in the flesh, second Person of the Trinity, as stated in The Apostles', Nicene, and Athanasian Creeds. This is taught throughout Scripture, example John 1. Without Him there will be a worldwide religion formed, that is not True Christianity, or True Catholicism AT ALL.
Thank you Father, for distinguishing between the ecumenism we are always called to which was articulated by the fathers at VII and the cheap kumbaya imitation of our modern day. The twofold ends of ecumenism are on the one hand the gathering of all people into the fullness of Christ's peace in the fullness of communion in Christ's Church, and on the other the preserving at least material peace amongst peoples in the meantime. If what we believe is true, then the ultimate end of productive dialogue with the brother Bishops who are not in full communion with the Bishop of Rome, with our brothers and sisters in baptism who are not in communion with any particular Apostolic Church and with our brothers and sisters in the human family who have not yet been baptized is that the truth will become clear. Experience has shown this, and I've seen many conversions occur because of this (many more than have come from non-Catholics being beaten over the head with a Catechism). It's also worth remembering that Vatican II commenced 17 years after the end of the second World War. A healthy recognition of what we have in common is helpful in avoiding a repeat the horrors seen during the past centuries - but it is certainly not an end in itself!
Ecumenism from the right perspective: Because of our differences we come to share our faith so that our misconceptions minimise in the process. I agree totally. Good New ecumenical Approach.🤗🤗🤗 Well articulated. Thank you.
I'm only interested in ecumenism with the Orthodox (Eastern'/Copts/Armenian). I understand other Catholics are interested in protestants or people of other faiths, I'm not in that group. I don't hate them or dislike them, I'm just not interested.
USA is founded on the idea that it is possible under a constitution that is mindful of ethics and human rights keeping State and Religion separated. However in my experience the fundamental differences do get in the way. Corporate McDonald's does shop different than In N Out Burgers. Should a flock frequent all the joints? Should one flock cast stones at another? At the end of the day both shops just trying to make some burgers, some money, and people happy.
It's nice to hear someone voice truth and not just a politically correct version that makes you "feel" good but keeps you ignorant. Keep up the good work brother.
These meeting are not as you said a time to proselytize...yes? Being open to questions and answering them honestly with what "we" believe as Catholics is good. Amen Fr. Casey. Yes, still the coolest priest I've never met!
Good video. As a protestant, I have been inspired by you and other Catholics. I have also heard Muslims and Buddhists speak words of wisdom. That does not mean I will convert nor will I become a Catholic. I am certain all great things can be found in the Bible, but sometimes non Christians can inspire you to do the things Christians should be doing.
Redentoris Ominis by Pope John Paul ll explains as long as it doesn’t compromise our Catholic beliefs it’s ok. I believe Pope Paul Vl also addresses the issue in a general audience.
So are we saying that the main reason for ecumenical dialogue is to create the opportunity to convert others to our position? The fact is that many Christians and perhaps most Muslims believe that anyone who dies outside of their respective faith, (having first understood it), will almost certainly go to hell. It's going to be very difficult, in the context of an honest inter-faith conversation, for either side to persuade the other to come around to their view, given how strongly so many Christians and Muslims believe their own faith claims. I can understand why inter-religious dialogues end up feeling vague and nebulous - because the central claims of most religions contradict each other so starkly that there is simply no reconciling them, so the only options available are either to find common ground, which would seem to be the more civilised way, or to resume conflict, which of course has been the way of history.
The only non-Catholic Christian groups that we should be in dialogue with *Eastern Orthodox Church *Oriental Orthodoxy *Assyrian Church of the East *Ancient Church of the East *High church Anglican Communion *High church Lutheranism
I think the The Autonomous Orthodox Metropolitan of North and South America and the British Isles still enforces the canonical prohibition against joint prayer with non-Chalcedonians and Roman Catholics. This could extend to Orthodox Christians who are not under a "True Orthodox" Bishop but I am not sure about that. They certainly oppose ecumenism very firmly.
Wise words. This is all to avoid the "cancel culture", which claims that you should ignore all the qualities and achievements of a person if there is the least amount of disagreement. It is the result of an earlier thought, which said that to like a person means to accept him completely, including his defects, which is totally against the gospel. My biggest growths in the faith were with conversations with people from others. Dogmas até only celebrated because there are heresies.
I am a part-time business owner and I've been told not to post about any religion on social media because it's "bad for my business." Do I listen to that? No. I love my business, but I love Jesus more. I am an entrepreneur, but I am a follower of Christ first. And if I didn't express my faith just for the comfort of others, then I would be doing Christ a HUGE disservice because He literally calls each and every one of us to do just that. It makes me sad that people think they have to water down their love for Christ just for others' comfort when Christ Himself never said following Him would be comfortable.
Speaking as someone who is not a Roman Catholic, the attitude toward ecumenism outlined in this video is exactly why I follow this channel. Thank you Fr. Casey!
*grible* Prototest- antsm
Thought provoking indeed and as the protestant in the room I completely agree with you 100% well said
I went to school with Muslims and other faith groups and had periods to learn about God in our own ways. It was the best times of my life. Thanks Father Casey. May God keep blessing your ministry.
@TraditionalCatholicthoughts Salvation of Jesus Christ doesn't come from a building in Rome. Comes from God PERIOD. I could never Catholic . I would have to hate my country?
@TraditionalCatholicthoughts As much as I believe that Catholicism holds the fullness of Truth, I don’t think your approach is appropriate, though your tone is indeed benign and you have good intentions. Perhaps re-consider the main issue that you want to bring up when evangelising the Truth? Salvation, though can be effective, is more often than not a very sensitive topic that can appear to be offensive to some. Try probing them with the issue of the Eucharist, perhaps? It is a sacrament that is very dear to the heart of many Catholics, cradle and converts alike. To me, it is a major reason why I’ve remained a Catholic, and why I have reconnected to the Lord in ways never before. Thank you for reading this, I hope you would consider my suggestion.
I am protestant but I 100% agree. I was at an ecumenical thanksgiving service and it was just "let's be good and hope for good"
like bruh
why
what's the point?
If you don't protest serious error can you call yourself a protestant. Christ name be hallowed no mixture.
“bruh” : a common response to the increasingly messed up world
You can view Shahram Hadians YT on Chrislam. His YT is 5 years old and addresses the incompatibility of Islam and Christianity. Shahram was shunned by many top Christian leaders due to the Ecumenical movement promoted by many at the time. To wit, Yales document A Common Word Between Us and You which was signed by many leading Christian and Muslim leaders including Rick Warren among others.
Shahram has since been vindicated.
Recent works by Christian apologetics have imo have completely debunked the fraud of Mohammed and Islam. This has mainly occurred within the past year due to critical investigation of both coupled with Muslim apologetics forced to recently admit the Quran was not perfectly preserved and due to the fact that Arabic Christians are
now active and are top apologists.
Leading Christian YT apologetics are...
Jay Smith (Pfander Films)
Al Fadi (CIRA International)
David Wood (Acts17Apologetics and Infinity Apologetics)
Sam Shamoun (Shahmounian)
Christian Prince (Christian Prince and various YT channels)
Rob Christian (Rob Christian)
Hatun Tash (DCCI Ministries)
The point is we seem to act more scornful to eachother then the ocean of atheists and islam. Like game of thrones characters fighting eachother with a sea of whitewalkers coming
I am cantholic and I am inspired by protestants, you are in favour of God and followers of Jesus. And thats what is taught in our Church - we are no better then protestants,. Why we we call ourselveves "us" and protestants "them"? Because we are corrupted humans.... Otherwise it would be just "us".
This reminded of a train trip I took while in Iran, from Tehran to Shiraz. My compartment mate and I got into a discussion about his faith and my faith. One a Catholic/Christian and the other a Shi'ite/Muslim. I learned how we actually both had a few commonalities in how we practiced our faith and the personal relationship we have with God. There were differences, sure. But it's the openness, revealing our own personal issues we have about the doctrines of our faith, and how we pray that we came to form a deep spiritual bond. The best way to describe it was that I felt that we were in communion with each through our belief in God, the same communion I have with my fellow Catholic brothers and sisters. The respect was there and in no way did we compromise on our expressions of our faiths. Rather we learnt from each other, eg I came to realise that I could be braver in approaching my local priests and discussing areas troubling me about what the church teaches or practices.
Very similar to a conversation that I had with a young Berber man in the Casablanca train station. A random street cat had wandered in, climbed onto my lap, and gone to sleep. While I wasn’t sure if this man spoke any English, I gave it a go, after noticing him laughing about the cat, and said, “Believe it or not, it’s not actually my cat!”
The young man laughed, and said, “You speak English? You blend in with your beard, and you look like you could be Turkish!”
We talked for awhile, mostly about our respective faiths, while I was busily stealing the free WiFi in the train station, to find last minute lodging after my Airbnb host canceled on me.
Four years later, I’m still Facebook friends with him, and I still have an open invite to visit and stay with his family in their village!
Actually, that is a Catholic heresy to respect other religions. Just talking with some muslim doesn't tell you their doctrines anymore than talking to a random catholic, since they may not know theology, they know what is required for their station in life. You have no spiritual bond with a muslim, to say that is heresy. Only Catholics have a spiritual bond through having the same faith.
So True Fr. Cassey ,we need to let others know about our beautiful faith ,our teachings .. Im proud to be Catholic and I had been asked by two muslims , that celebrated Christmas mass with me, because they wanted to know about Christmas mass celebration and how we pray , They both were amazed and kept praising the church , how peaceful catholic priest just explaining what he read in bible, without preaching anything bad about no other religion . Simple the meaning of what he read on bible ..
Nice! I'll keep you three in my prayers. :)
It’s great be to able to serve as a good example and bring people closer to the true faith. But I don’t see a point in being “proud” about being a Catholic. Pride, really?
@@matoberry my brother I don't mean that type of pride , Just glad I belong to Catholic relugion
That means the pastor never shared the gospel to them. At the heart of the gospel is exclusivity: that Jesus is the only way to salvation.
I was so happy to hear this. I was very nervous when I clicked and I was totally prepared to leave frustrated and sad. Stand firm, Father. I love you, and I thank you.
Father Casey I hope we one day see what books you own and know your favorites and recommendations. I’d love to see it. ❤️
The point may be to resolve a social issue. 30 years ago as a pastor in a store front mission, I teamed with a rabbi and an Iman, to provide school clothes and supplies. Did we pray yes each to our own. Yet we were all children of Abraham . Bishop Hubbard visited and lent support as many of the youth we helped were diocesan students. That is the point.
The only "children of Abraham" are Christians. If you don't know Our Lord, you don't know Abraham. This is what Our Lord Explains in John 8. If you do not worship Him, you are not a child of Abraham. Open and shut case, because God shut the case. He told us this. Read the chapter
In John 8, 33Jesus is speaking to fellow Jews. Did you forget that Jesus is a Jew?
The disciples were Jewish. In fact the book of Acts describes how many of the Church Fathers said you had to be circumcised before you could join the Church. Please study further.
Also please read Hebrews Chapter 11
@@Rytchord Are you being serious? Your heresy is the entire reason for Paul writing the letter to the Galatians who held to the same heresy that you hold to.
2 Behold, I Paul tell you, that if you be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing.3 And I testify again to every man circumcising himself, that he is a debtor to the whole law.4 You are made void of Christ, you who are justified in the law: you are fallen from grace.5 For we in spirit, by faith, wait for the hope of justice.6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision: but faith that worketh by charity.7 You did run well, who hath hindered you, that you should not obey the truth?8 This persuasion is not from him that calleth you.9 A little leaven corrupteth the whole lump.10 I have confidence in you in the Lord: that you will not be of another mind: but he that troubleth you, shall bear the judgment, whosoever he be.11 And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? Then is the scandal of the cross made void. Galatians 5:2-11
15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. Galatians 6:15
But contrariwise, when they had seen that to me was committed the gospel of the uncircumcision, as to Peter was that of the circumcision.8 (For he who wrought in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, wrought in me also among the Gentiles.)9 And when they had known the grace that was given to me, James and Cephas and John, who seemed to be pillars, gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship: that we should go unto the Gentiles, and they unto the circumcision:10 Only that we should be mindful of the poor: which same thing also I was careful to do.11 But when Cephas was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed. Galatians 2:6-11
Are you seriously suggesting that Our Lord's religion is the exact same as the Pharisees who founded Orthodox Judaism? That Christianity is not the religion of Christ but the religion of the Jews who reject him? The Jews no longer have a covenant with God, they have lost it. God's people are now his Church. What about Hebrews 11? Hebrews 11 is a testament to the works of faith, faith in *Christ Jesus.* Not in the Talmud which is blasphemous.
Murray Heresy, the circumcising issue was settled agreed, to say that Jesus is Jewish is not because He is. Jesus is out of the house of David that is the prophecy. Or are you saying Jews are not the seed of Abraham.
Imagine a Mormon or Scientologist joining such a meeting: they would have to avoid all kinds of things that are central to ONLY their 'faith'.
Honestly I feel that a lot of Protatant church's are way more concerned with entertaining themselves than actually praising God.
WOW. Very well put ! I been saying for years that many of these evangelical churches look more like nightclubs than churches. And just like nightclubs they cater only to the very young. Not that I have a problem with youth groups. They are good and have a important place. But it is like these Protestant churches exclude anyone over 35 it seems. Granted someone who is elderly and never been to church likely never will. But the church still must cater and reach out to ALL ages.
however you can get Gods message across.
So Praising God means? Speaking Latin? Whats else? Believing Im literally eating flesh and blood? The Assumption of Mary that Mary was super magic and had no Sin? ? Mary (Human Female )got magically pregnant - I Think Ill stay in reality and view the Bible as rational , logical , reasonable and whats plausible , Rather than a Harry Potter magic book.
@@roboparks or Arabic
@Ahin Johny Then why isn't called the "Truth of Mary"?
assumption (n.)Latin use (Cicero). Meaning "action of taking for oneself" is recorded from 1580s; that of "something taken for granted"
Noun(1) a statement that is assumed to be true and from which a conclusion can be drawn(2) a hypothesis that is taken for granted(3) the act of taking possession of or power over something(4) celebration in the Roman Catholic Church of the Virgin Mary's being taken up into heaven when her earthly life ended; corresponds to the Dormition in the Eastern Orthodox Church(5) (Christianity(6) audacious (even arrogant(7) the act of assuming or taking for granted
Love from a Jewish subscriber!
Shalom!
La Haim...From a Torah & Zohar Loving Roman Catholic, John, In a small Town in rural Southern Missouri.
'Salvation is from the Jews'. The New Covenant: the spiritual homeland for the Jews is Holy Mother Church and heaven.
I'm a Seventh Day Adventist and I enjoy watching your videos. It gives me a better understanding of your Christian faith and show the similarities and differences between mine.
Dialogue is important. Dialogue that goes nowhere and repeats the same old stuff is a waste of time.
Justin well said
Gospel Simplicity thanks man.
And that's why debates are necessary.
we do have respect for other people. however we need to be honest: only the blood of Christ saves. He is the Way, the Truth and Life. i want to talk about God to convert hearts to His beauty.
Not going to work. Muslims aren't going to respond to attempted conversion. In fact, they are on the same conversion mission, thus you just rule each other out.
@@TimothyRCrowe Jesus says to take the Good News to the world. Tim Crowe says it won't work. Jesus says the Word never comes back void. Tim says it won't work. With all due respect, Imma follow Jesus.
Yes, I agree that only Christ is the only Way, that is what the Church teaches us! But also, the Body of Christ, his Church, is radically one. And so, unity and cooperation of goodwill among all Christians is precisely rooted in the unity of His one catholic and apostolic Church.
Nope. Do you realize that pretty much every single religion can say the same thing about their religion? What makes your belief the only true and right one?
I'm a buddhist practitioner. I know and understand that unless you take refuge in the three Jewels, you will suffer again and again in Samsara. However, we need to undertand that no two persons are equal, why should their faiths be then? Embrace religious diversity.
@@Grumpy27n23 If you drive people away with that attitude they will never hear the Good News.
Ecumenism can offer possibilities inter-religious dialogue doesn't. I would treat them as totally different. But I absolutely loved your focus on loving dialogue about differences. This is something I love about ecumenism: being able to dialogue. Making an effort to understand others, actually taking them seriously instead of just seeking their weak point. Doing your best to explain your faith in a simple but truthful way. Seeing Christ in other confession, what we have in common _through_ the lens of our differences. And while I don't agree with many of their beliefs, I can see my faith in perspective, understand it better, purify it... thanks to these beliefs. Other differences are not dogmatic, but of emphasis, liturgy or spirituality, and put together they become a precious shared treasure.
Heresy of heresies
Be a sharp catholic, be as catholic as possible, follow the tradition of the church, follow the magisterium, avoid sins, and then interact with the world, evangelization will happen naturally, because people will see truth in you, be a saint, desire to be a true catholic saint. Saint Francis made the Muslim leader convert to the one true faith, never forget that's how that story ended...
When did Christ call you to be Catholic? Don't let the Church organization indoctrinate you. You should be looking to The Bible for your answers and guidance.
Ah yes the traditions of the church. Like the inquisition, witch hunts, racism, molesting children, enriching themselves at every opportunity...
@@carpediem5232 you misunderstand what the word "Tradition" means in Catholicism. None of what you said has anything to do with Tradition. The only close one is the Inquisition but even that is only a part of Tradition in its office, not in its action.
@@rekeinserah The catholic church started with the killing and forceful conversion of other Christians (Arians etc.) and then pagans who didn't share the same interpretation.
Yes there are Catholic Tradition (capitalized) he wrote "traditions of the church".
I responded to the latter.
You can tell me what you understand under Catholic Tradition and I'll respond to that also.
@@carpediem5232 The Church is a hospital for the sick. If you take this kind of reasoning you’ll end up questioning why Jesus picked Judas as a disciple. God works through broken people, a broken world. That does not make the killing of pagans right, but it does allows us to differentiate between the awful actions of some in the Church from actual Church teaching and Tradition. God bless.
The accompanying music was more rhythmic
than I would've ever expected from a Franciscan;
I may have sinned just thinking of busting a move!
Ummm, I don't know why, but, I rather enjoyed the b'ground music; nicely done and soft enough not to be to distracting. Thanks much Fr. Casey.
Y'all Be Safe!
The bible never teaches ecumenism. It teaches that the gospel is to be preached to the lost....that whole great commission thing. He talked about learning from muslims or buddhists and sort of stopped there. I want to learn about other faiths so i can share the gospel and hopefully see them come to a saving relationship with Jesus. Our learning has to have a goal other than simply knowing about someone elses faith. Muslims need Jesus as do buddhists. No, ecumenism isn't the answer, the great commission is.
@John Coffey
I agree that the Gospel needs to be preached with love in Truth. We can't effectively preach if OUR understanding of THEIR faith is inaccurate and "polemical". The problem is that modern ecumenism has definitely degenerated into a form of syncretism in line with the goals of the NWO. It's basically Rodney King's maxim "Why can't we all just get along", and sees religious differences as obstacles to "world peace" and a "one world government". In that atmosphere, Truth is sacrificed to a fake "peace".
No they don't. Not everyone has the same route to God.
I see those orthodox icons brother , much love.
Catholic and Orthodox are the two lungs in the same body!
@@guisan-jl8ix
Not quite. If we were, we would still be in communion and wouldn't have very real differences in ecclesiology and how Bishops are elected. They are not appointed by a "super Bishop". They are elected by a Holy Synod, and are are ordained by multiple Bishops, in a "conciliar manner". There are also certain dogmas like Papal supremacy (immediate universal jurisdiction), Papal Infallibility, the Immaculate Conception, Purgatory, etc, in which Traditional Orthodoxy can't accept, unless they are, at least, restated to resolve those differences. BTW the 2 lung theory is just a restatement of the "branch theory" that was advocated by the Anglicans back in the 50's. In reality, it's either Roman Catholicism, with its Papacy, is true, or Orthodoxy and its "communion of local Churches", who share a common faith, submit to a common "Holy Tradition", including our chief hierarchs, AND are in communion with each other, is true. In Orthodoxy, the Holy Mysteries (Sacraments) belong to the Church, and aren't seen as a Bishop's personal "chrism", which he "keeps", even if he is a heretic and is formally condemned. Don't let Rome's "ecumenical enthusiasm" fool you, and don't assume that Orthodoxy shares the same theology as Rome, and is equally enthusiast by a "reunion" that doesn't address these differences, though there are segments in Orthodoxy that do, namely Ecumenical Patriarch Barfolomew, the "Green Patriarch". YUK!
@@pravolub8 oh boy the blood of sack of Constantinople still drive you to hate the See that holds the keys of saint Peter.
@@louellecaldino506
You have it all wrong. I don't have a problem.addressing historical "wrongs", like the sack of Constantinople. We've done our share of them as well, and apologies are accepted. I talking about the REAL theological differences that Ecumenists, on both sides, want to minimize or ignore, for the sake of a "false union", which in good conscience, ANY good Catholic or Orthodox shouldn't ignore. "Pachamama" should sound off some warning bells for you about the nature of modern Ecumenism.
@@pravolub8 let me clarify those who are not in union with the See of Peter are not Orthodox and totally not Catholic. You even add more books in the canon of scripture that contradict the councils before. All The teaching of the Church are held and thought by the church fathers and apostles. You need to see the truth or you choose to be blind due to your arrogance or ignorance.
This reminds me of Richard Kearney's "Anatheism: Returning to God After God," which speaks a lot about the hostility or hospitality toward the stranger. I would recommend you take a look if you haven't already!
In 1987 the evening before Thanksgiving St. Thomas More parish in Baton Rouge hosted an Ecumenical Thanksgiving service (I think part of the reason was to show off the brand new church building to all the Baptists & Methodists in the area). Anyway, Bishop Ott was in attendance, & after the service blessed my 5-month old daughter. That was the very first night she slept all the way through the night. I suppose I’ve had a soft spot for these services ever since.
As a devoted Catholic, I was thought by my mom to always learn from other people of their religion and not try to persuade them to believe in my Catholic faith but instead tell them about it and why we practice the faith the way we do. Also to pray for the Holy spirit to give them understanding. If its the will of God they will join the faith. I really agree with Fr. Casey 100%, ecumenism is the way to really understand each other's religion and grow as one in the body of Christ.
Ecumenism is nonsense. There is No Salvation Outside the Church. Ecumenism gives the impression that all religions are equal. They are not! Catholicism is superior!
@Alex Carlson transfiguration or transubstantiation? Transfiguration is when Jesus's appearance changed.
When God told the apostles to lead, gave them the keys to the kingdom and he wouldn't let the church fall, he gave Peter a special title. Peter's position has been passed down after his death as the bishops of Rome aka the Pope. He is not God. All structures benefit from leadership, and the church is no different. Yes, God guides and protects the church from total failure, but having a person to help lead is not wrong and he is not God. He sins like the rest of us.
Mary gave birth to Jesus and had great faith. The early church fathers believed she was always a virgin and was taken up to heaven.
The saints are God's people. The faithful including those living and those who are in heaven are all God's people. God told us to pray for one another, and this commandment doesn't need to stop simply because someone died, so we pray for one another. Prayer is communication. Saints are not God and they shouldn't be prayed to as God, but we can request them to pray for us as we pray for them. Of course we do not need the saints to pray, but God told us to pray for one another and we are community-based creatures. He gave us this resource. Shouldn't we use it? Mary is one of them too.
You may ask, how can we know who is in heaven? Well we know the Bible says many prophets are in heaven. It also says martyrs have a special place in heaven somewhere, and also Jesus told the thief he'd be with him in paradise. We know of a few confirmed people in heaven because of this.
Any more questions? I have a question for you. What faith are you from? I'm catholic.
Padre, my Saudi friend and I talk about our faiths, and I say to him, 'mate, I'm pretty sure this is the true faith and I want you to know it, but I also don't want any harm to be caused to you, so we'll complain about how catholic music has become deranged, how arabic melodies sound like coptic melodies, how we sorta believe in the same stuff, but then muslims don't believe in the divinity of Jesus and then I say mate, you people make good Biryani, and then he says, they only make that in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Iran, and I'll be like you've got the good camel meat, and he'll be like, that's right, then we'll talk about how we both need to improve our knowledge of maths, to understand mechanics'. I hope you get the point. But neither of us call this ecumenism, we just do this, so that we don't understand each others faith with misconceptions. I just love the way that he is actually sincere to his faith, unlike many catholics and I just wish many catholics would take the same interest that he takes in catholicism and I take in islam. God Bless you Padre, and your great work.
Brother, you are actually doing what Jesus requested of ALL of His disciples. Live the Christ life in such a way that our words, actions, mind, heart and soul line up in conformity with Jesus operating in and through us and bring glory to God. That, is what God uses to love your friend into His kingdom. You are on the right path. Ecumenism used to mean when all CATHOLIC parts of The Body came together (As an Ecumenical Body/Council) to discuss CHURCH thoughts, issues, needs, work etc. Now ecumenism means Catholics having a conference with non-catholics and pretending we are all one big happy family and everyone is going to heaven in whatever way they "FEEL" is right for them. Ever hear of "you have your truth and I have my truth" (aka relativism... fancy word for everyone is their own god and decides for themselves). I have a funny feeling if Jesus showed up at a modern ecumenical event, He might kick some tables over because the Catholics there have done one thing in the name of relativism: cloaked the Gospel in a mantle of confusion. I could be wrong, but my gut says otherwise. Might be bit of underdone potato, I'm just a catholic of no reputation trying to follow Jesus in my bit of this crazy postmodernist world.
I am only interested in Ecumenism with Christians of other denominations and perhaps Jews. The rest of the faiths of the world have so little in common with The Catholic Church's teachings that it's entirely pointless to speak with them.
Well Muslims accept Jesus as the messiah so I’d say they as much if not more In common with Christians than Jews.
I can attest that, it was precisely through my deep friendship and dialogue with born-again evangelical and atheist friends that my Catholic Christian faith was strengthened. Not watered down!
Catholic ecumenism is much the same. Just on a larger scale. All who profess Christ are called back to be part "of the whole" (i.e. Gr. katholikos).
This is an honest and informative exposition of “ecumenism” as it is currently practised. My own family’s experience with ecumenism as practised by some contemporary Catholic institutions, however, points to an aspect that was not touched on or addressed in the video. We noticed through our sons’ experience of senior high school at a Jesuit-run prep school (that is partly supported by public i.e. secular funds) that students of all faiths were treated with equality and respect; indeed it was repeatedly emphasized that it was the very fact of membership in a “faith community” of whatever description that provided this essential respect. However, failing to affirm any supernatural beliefs or membership in any “faith community” conferred a subtly, but quite noticeably, lesser status. As we experienced it, contemporary Catholic ecumenism amounts to acting on the conviction that “professing a faith” - any faith - is inherently superior to non-belief in anything supernatural. Thankfully, in today’s Canada this does not appear to have any further consequences in the wider society.
Not professing a faith should have negative consequences. Everyone has a faith. People would not get out of bed in the morning without the faith that getting out of bed would make their lives better. Not professing a faith usually means not knowing what one's actual faith is. Ignorance almost always has consequences.
@@jwrosenbury Yes, of course, “people would not get out of bed without the faith that getting out of bed would make their lives better”. I thought that it was clear from the context I set that I was using the expression “professing a faith” as a conventional shorthand for “professing a faith in a belief system with essential supernatural entities or phenomena“ or, if you prefer, “professing a ‘religious’ faith”. As part of our common humanity I have, for example, faith in the universal validity of the Golden Rule ... and will “profess” this faith. I trust you are not suggesting that my or anyone else’s “not professing a ‘religious’ faith“ (i.e. failing to be persuaded of the supernatural) ... “should have negative consequences”. Then, we would again be on the path to persecuting ‘heretics’.
@@shaber9 It is difficult to know someone's faith without communicating with them. Most people have faith in usefulness. By that I mean they define the world by how they use things in it. A person might easily recognize a table as somewhere to set things for example. Some people have faith in science. They might define a table as being a certain height, being made of a certain material, etc. Engineers are like that. Religious people often believe in sacrifice. A table becomes an alter where we give something of value in the hope of a new world. This belief in sacrifice is a surprisingly common pattern of thought in all cultures throughout history. In fact it seems to be a defining trait of humans.
Drawing a line and saying you believe in the golden rule, but not "religion" seems like an arbitrary way to divide the world to me. Do you see the sacrifice the golden rule requires? Doesn't that make it a religion? Or is "religion" just unfounded superstition that other people believe in to you?
As always a well thought, well argued video.
I hope you don't take the comments guys to heart, every community has its toxic 'fans' and unfortunately social media allows them free rein.
You (ann other Catholic you tubers) are doing more to evangelise and spread the word than toxic comment guys ever could.
Agreed! But also, in true Christian fashion, the brave and prudent among us may be able to use these moments to teach and correct, and perhaps even learn a bit themselves
Ecumenism gone wrong looks like this: You and everyone else are sitting at the bottom of a well, but everyone else has missing limbs while you have all four. But instead of climbing out the well and grabbing a rope you decide to saw your legs off to be like everyone else. That is not what you should do, use your experiences to minister to those around you, regardless of denomination, faith, or culture.
Ironically, these are the very problems I see in weekly church and general Christian fellowship. There is so much politeness and PC that there is no substance to the conversations and as a result, there is no impetus to actually go out and create change.
How peaceful it is with what you have shared Father. Lets pray more towards this goal.
I only go to Ecumenical gatherings where I can sing a Hymn to Our Blessed Virgin Mary and they're okay with that.
This is the first time I agree with everything that you said Fr. Casey. We do not evolve if we agree on everything, it is by learning the differences and understanding we grow.
Thoughtful and insightful, as always. As a practitioner of a different faith, I watch your videos for many of the reasons you discussed here - learning about different perspectives is essential to growth and development. I can say that your commentary has expanded not only my understanding of Catholic doctrine, but has also helped me to better define my own views.
Thank you for your content; please keep up the good work.
Dear brother to share your faith in meaningful way that is a mighty mission but when no one else can understand what is your religion way or metaphor that is becoming harder and harder for us .
Thankx my bro I hope that you can see my comment and understand my point. Pray for a better life for all .
Bismillah, I am a Roman Catholic Christian like Fr. Casey, I think that He may be suggesting that in Interfaith Dialogue, We can learn more when We share what is important about our Faith to others. Don't hide it to smooth over differences but maybe We can learn from each other, While solidly remaining in our Chosen Faith. Allah Akbar! Subhan Allah!, John
You hinted at it with the anecdote about St. Francis, but engaging with the beliefs of others gives us insight that can be used to enhance our own understanding of our own faith. Afterall, it was reading the Bhagavad Gita that started me on the path that led me here. Even if I don't accept the theological convictions of Hinduism devotionally, the insight that book gave me proved invaluable.
Thanks for bringing this topic up Father Casey, I think you address the problem but I don't think you laid out a solution. Your solution seems to be that you want to learn more about other peoples' faiths but you then add a qualification that you do this from a point of view of wanting others to know about your faith in conformity with Dominus Iesus which says all ecumenism must be directed towards converting those outside of the Church. This video could very well be called "Dominus Iesus" for it seems to present the same point of view as that document. But like that document, I think there are some problems. Fundamentally, if this is the purpose of ecumenism then what makes ecumenism distinct from simple apologetics? There we see a difference is highlighted, and then debated upon. We are the only religion that is completely true and the only one where God actively works through the Holy Spirit, and so if our argument is put forward correctly, the faith will prevail. Apologetics works, it's the only thing that worked before the 1960s. It converted entire continents. It converted me. This is not to say that there can't be major abuses. For example, look at modern anti-Muslim apologetics which is basically functioning as shocking people into becoming Christians through insults and profanity and utilizes extremely uncharitable techniques. But look at the counter-reformation writings by our Saints which are incredibly charitable, or see our modern Catholic apostolates that are charitable. And the best part is they work.
The whole point of ecumenism was to say that this process is wrong. It was to say that everyone ought to find their similarities and it assumed that this would mean that everyone would come together. This didn't work, in fact, nothing happened and so we watered down our beliefs in hopes of something happening. That just made it even worse and was a major contribution to the current vocational and mass attendance crisis.
So really I have two questions for you. What is the difference between your vision of ecumenism and charitable apologetics? And If they are different, why is there a necessity for ecumenism rather than charitable apologetics?
Very interesting and good points! I may not agree completely, but I nod to a lot of your points. Personally, I don't have a very good answer to those questions yet. But I think that ecumenism really is more for developing goodwill and deepening one's faith and reason.
One could also propose that ecumenism and apologetics are two sides of the same coin! That they should always go together. I also feel that there needs to be a correction of people who distort or misunderstand the purpose of ecumenism.
As an ecumenist working for a Catholic religious society I really enjoyed this video. It reminds me of JPII's emphasis on ecumenism as a mutual exchange of gifts". Great work!
Do not throw your Perls to the swine
"Be true to who you are and let others be the same" Right on point Father Casey!
In other words, you would say ecumenism takes seriously the claim of Catholicism that man can know God not only by grace but also by reason. It treats a person as if he could seriously think about religion.
Whereas proselytism and interreligious dialogue does not.
Now now. It also recognizes that reasons has limits. It isn't on the same level as God's Grace. In fact, the reason we can know God through reason at all is due to His Grace.
@@dmitriykinzhebulatov Reason does have its limits which is why we need divine revelation. But reason can take us as far as coming to know who has divine revelation.
The normal man who does not even know that God exists either lacks the power of reason or, having reason, lacks something normal, necessary, and natural to men. His ignorance is vincible.
And it is his own fault, and/or the fault of the men around him - not of God - that he is ignorant even of God. Sufficient grace for even knowledge of God cannot be wanting.
Brother Casey, this is why I call you Father, Just like their fathers, sons think alike their fathers, and I see quite a number of youths growing up in this generation getting fed up with the apathetic view of religion and especially Christianity, our previous generations would rather avoid conversations in fear of confrontations where I seek those who want to share their thoughts. and just like you I've been into some engagements with Protestants, Muslims, Hindus and Bahai's hosted by our Jesuit Chaplain with me representing the more Hardline Catholic wing since I share many views with the SSPX. I feel like it's so uncomfortable, we're all at the edges of our seats to not offend each other with our customary compliments complimenting other religions, and it seems like there's this unspoken rule that we're not allowed to ask more than what we feel might offend others and it feels like a pre programmed conversation that we always knew the outcome. I pray that the Holy Spirit would guide more Catholic youths to be inspired to be more curious about our own faith.
Keep up the Good work, With Love from Italy :)
I really like this new set. The books, the bricks, the icon-ic pictures to your left--they all really work for me. This sort of thing is important; without it, you have just a podcast or radio show. From my experience, I think it is vital for Catholics to learn more about other faiths and to be willing to discuss their own. Knowledge is more than power; it is holy.
Father, for me this is a very apt video. Born and raised Catholic, attending 16 years of Catholic schools, no one ever taught me "This is what most protestants/jews/muslims/etc believe, and this is why we do not agree and have something different and very much more....." If I would have had that single class, I believe my entire life might have been different. Instead, for years, I held beliefs like, "We all [Christians] worship the same thing." It wasn't until something grabbed me (I'd like to think it was the Holy Spirit) and gave me the gumption to research on my own, re-discovering my faith. Last year, I went to my first confession in 40 years. To this day, I believe we must improve Catholic instruction. Thank you again.
You need to read Bishop Barron's " How to have a religious argument ". Or, watch his RUclips video on the subject. 👍🙏
If you may, I would rather propose the writings of St Thomas Aquinas, St François of Assise and St François Xavier
Read all of them, Bishop Barron draws from them and approaches the modern world in a relevant way. So it’s definitely enriching
@@bpcathcrusader4952 the Church IS the world. Outside of It there is no modernism or else but chaos and destruction.
Jesus did NOT send out his apostles and disciples to “engage in dialogue” with pagans and non believers but to go out to all the ends of the world , baptizing all people in the Name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost. Sitting around, singing cumbayá and exchanging personal views on your “beliefs” is NOT what the Lord had in mind. What has happened to our missionary spirit, the dogma that there is no salvation outside the Church? Ignoring that is not Christian. This attitude that all religions are the same is a heresy and is a main reason why the Catholic flock continues to shrink.
Amen
Those leaving the church know why they do so? I am NOT going to find Jesus (God) somewhere else just because there are ‘sinners’ in my Catholic Church! Pagans are sinners, aren’t they? Spread the good news to all God chooses as He wills, I believe.
Jesus engaged in dialogue with the woman at Jacob's well. She explained the difference between her people and the Jews, and Jesus explained the truth in a way that led her to conversion. I'd call that a fruitful ecumenical dialogue in which Jesus was clearly engaged.
In order to evangelize you have to engage in dialogue with paeans and non believers.
The way “engaging in dialogue “ is used here in this video is a friendly exchange of ideas and personal beliefs. Jesus did NOT engage in such talk. He “Spoke with authority,” as no one of his hearers, be they Pharisees or Sadducees or pagans had ever heard. Jesus is the TRUTH, as He is the only Way to God the Father, and He is the Life everlasting, gift of the Holy Ghost. When He spoke to the Samaritan woman He was converting her. His questions were as arrows to her soul, to probe her heart so as to prepare the way for her conversion. He opened her understanding and heart to the Truth, to Himself. The apostle and missionaries of old did this and the Gospel spread throughout the world like wildfire. Now, the “ecumenical spirit “ of the post Vatican II Church brings us empty pews and the pachamamas. And worldwide the Protestant denominations are vacuuming up what’s left of once vibrant Catholic nations. Look no further to any Latin American country to see our declining numbers. Sad.
In a nutshell I think, the problem isn't ecumenism, but that we misunderstand its meaning and purpose. It's precisely the radical uniqueness and oneness of Mother Church that compels us to draw other Christians back towards us! By bridging and dialogue, starting with whatever is true and holy in other Christian groups. It's two-way in goodwill and culture, but only one-way in doctrine and unity.
In the words of Jesus, "ut unum sint" (Jn 17).
Also, ecumenism should not be confused with interreligious dialogue! The former applies just to other Christian denominations.
You nailed brother. Beautifully said.
Fr. Casey, Your enery and love for your calling in Christ is truly inspiring. I encourage you to learn about the life of Fr. Christian Mondor, OFM. I think when you visited our Saints Simon and Jude Catholic church in Huntington Beach, Fr. Christian had already passed away. Although he didn't produce any social media, there are RUclips videos with him and about him, plus Friars in California who knew this saint of a man very well. I'd suggest talking with your brothers at the Old Mission Santa Barbara. Blessings to you...
I can tell almost none have been in the US. Military, when There was no Catholic Chaplin around the other Chaplains step up and ministered to me. I have nothing against people if others faiths one of my friends was Muslim and a Mormon. I was taught to respect other people's right to belivie in their own faiths .
The chaplain part is really beautiful. God bless them!
Reminds me of the time when St Paul and St Peter hung out with all the pagan priests and priestesses and said: "Wow, your religious temple prostitution and the plethora of so many unusual, interesting gods and goddesses really teach me things about a new approach to worshipping that I might learn from."
Yeah, didn't happen.
I am from Bavaria (Germany) were some bishops started to give communion to protestants. Consequently many catholics do not belive Jesus is in the eucharisti becouse even people in the state of sin (especially non catholics) are allowed to receive him.
I think talking to people from a different background makes the world a better place. A lot of ill feelings towards other groups usually arise from stereotypes. There is fruit to be found in talking to other groups, but focusing on the similarities leads to a disingenuous dialogue where every party comes to the table with a muzzle on what they can say. How can we learn about others if you can’t talk about the main tenants of your faith. Really well thought out video Brother!
Interesting perspective. Thank you.
Thank you Fr. Casey. I personally have experience different religions, not because i wanted to find a true religion but because i wanted to know if they really believed in God.My search turned out to be very interesting,maybe one day i will talk to you about it.
I'm a Hindu and I definitely agree with you! Great channel btw!
Glad to see a Hindu here
Real Ecumenism is about addressing differences, not avoiding them. Well done and well said.
"... the next best thing to being really
inside Christendom is to be really outside it."
- G.K. Chesterton, "The Everlasting Man"
" It is the contention of these
pages that while the best judge of Christianity is a Christian, the next best judge would be something more like a Confucian. The worst judge of all is the man now most ready with his judgements; the ill-educated Christian turning gradually into the ill-tempered agnostic, entangled in the end of a feud of which he never understood the beginning, blighted with a sort of hereditary boredom with he knows not what, and already weary of hearing what he has never heard. He does not judge Christianity calmly as a Confucian would; he does not judge it as he would judge Confucianism. He cannot by an effort of fancy set the Catholic Church thousands of miles away in strange skies of morning and judge it as
impartially as a Chinese pagoda."
- G.K. Chesterton, "The Everlasting Man"
I agree. Ecumenism is most valuable when the conversation includes the differences. Each tradition is then able to gain from the others, see what they already have from a new angle, etc. When we delve into the differences, the similarities naturally also surface, but when we focus only on the similarities, we gain nothing, not even an increased understanding of each other.
(signed, a certified lay servant in the United Methodist Church whose response to ministry call is supported through regular association with Gaudiya Vaishnavas, through one of whom God spoke to pull me out of a wilderness state to a second awakening of faith in Christ.)
I have been blessed to live in a neighborhood where I have neighbors that are Hasidic and Catholic, Baptist, Protestant and Muslim. I never really had to work hard to teach my children to know and respect other religions. We find kindness and acceptance is better than trying to say one is better than another. There is always something in common and something to discuss but never argue about but I like just seeing each other as human beings who are going through life as best we can and being the best example of our religion. I've been challenged and that's good. And I have found our "fasting" rules are pretty good compared to others. ; )
For me this is why i believe that ecumenical meetings should thrive,
Despite our divergent interpretations of the Bible regarding Jesus Christ's life and guidance on how to live, we share a common faith in Him as Christians. This unity binds us together, even as we attend different churches.
For me, I summed up ecumenism from the wise words of Milton Friedman "Judge public policies by their results, not their intentions"
Same thing here with ecumenism "Don't judge ecumenism by its intentions, but rather by its results"
Question: What is the result now?
Fr. Casey, I agree with you. I am Episcopalian. I love the fact we are both Protestant and catholic. I learn so much from your channel. Thanks!
Well said brother. The source of the feeling that our world is divided, our communities are divided can, in my opinion, be tracked down the obsession on iclusivity. A follower of Jesus knows that we are all different with our unique talents that are there to be shared with others to enrich everyone.
Many years ago i attended a small town synagogue in Missouri. They regularly hosted interfaith panel discussions and events with local representatives of bahai, Muslim, Buddhist, and Christians (almost invariably Episcopalian). The events were always sans prayer but were really heavy on serious intellectual discussion which is always enjoyable, and a tour of the host congregations worship space. The one part i regretted most about it was the shocking lack of depth as to the plurality of expressions within each tradition. They would try to speak for everyone, almost always incorrectly. I was always saddened that both the catholic and orthodox churches refused to participate.
So that's one model but here's one i actually prefer. A few years ago the shul i attend now was having a major renovation. It was scheduled to be complete in time for tisha b'av, but as invariably goes for major renovation work it drug on months later. We planned to rent tents and hold the high holiday services in the parking lot. Hearing of this the church across the street leased us their space and even turned off and on the sound system for us so we wouldn't violate the commandments. The shul i attended in college leased the social hall to a catholic church that had been destroyed by fire. For a full year (interestingly although we didn't ask them to, they used matzos during passover so as not to inadvertently leave chometz in our space). I know of one synagogue in ny that permanently shares a space with a mosque. In college myself and several other members of Hillel would man the catholic soup kitchen on christmas and sunday mornings. We can meet in a stuffy room, or the trenches so to speak.
Standing ovation, father! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
I agree 100%
I am an atheist from a catholic family. I love this channel for everything I learn about life and the culture of my family and country. My exgirlfriend is Muslim and I took every chance I got to ask her about Allah and the prophet Muhammad, their celebrations, rituals and traditions. My best friend is a Protestant and he always has something to teach me.
It is not about who has the best religion or the best God or the correct viewpoint, it is about all we can learn from each other and make our lives, traditions and actions better so we can build a better future for everyone.
I have to agree, we aren't going to get any where if we keep ignoring what makes us different and just focus on what we have in common.
Explain to me this - I am a member of the Church of England. The Church of England doesn't accept the Marian doctrines of Immaculate Conception, The Assumption or her intercession. We do not accept the doctrine of transubstantiation in Holy Communion. We believe clergy should be allowed to marry and have families if they so wish. We don't believe in purgatory. We don't believe in indulgences. We don't believe in praying to saints who intercede for us. That is a small part of what we differ on. So, please explain to me, how I a member of the Church of England will ever be united with your Roman Catholic Church? I look forward to your reply very soon.
Dear Father Casey. Explain to me this - I am a member of the Church of England. The Church of England doesn't accept the Marian doctrines of Immaculate Conception, The Assumption or her intercession. We do not accept the doctrine of transubstantiation in Holy Communion. We believe clergy should be allowed to marry and have families if they so wish. We don't believe in purgatory. We don't believe in indulgences. We don't believe in praying to saints who intercede for us. That is a small part of what we differ on. So, please explain to me, how I a member of the Church of England will ever be united with your Roman Catholic Church? I look forward to your reply.
I agree, I see your point, it does in a way water down conversation, I like how it does avoid controversy or making others angry, I like the unifying idea of it but it does cover up the main issue, it needs to improve.
Why the background music!?
You've grown up in a country where religious tolerance is essentially the norm...for most of the world "regressing to the lowest common denominator" is a solution to literally prevent inter-faith violence.
I lived in Belfast and Derry (Northern Ireland) for three years during the troubles, and I can assure you the efforts at ecumenism between catholics and protestants there at the time may have been able to save lives and prevent suffering.
You seem to be under the mistaken belief that this is the only life we have, and that syncretizing does not risk the next.
I am a strong believer in ecumenical and inter faith dialog and inter action, as I firmly believe that not all the wisdom of God is to be found it just one sacred book and that God is known by many names and in many ways. We must be willing to be open to The Spirit speaking to us through these traditions but remain true to our own faith and belief structures as this is where and how God is revealing himself to us and inviting us to reflect Him to the world , as we are all call to a personal relationship with The Most High however we understand him to be . As Christian we are born into a tradition firmly rooted in our Jewish heritage . We are all created as spiritual vessels who must reflect all that The Artist wishes to express through us (Ephesians 2:10), some vessels have great capacity to be filled with faith (spiritual egg cup or bucket ) but have equally the fullness of faith. Let us then rejoice in and learn from the traditions of all God’s people and be proud to known and understand Him as He has been revealed to us and share with others how we know ,love and serve Him.
I always preface my comments here with saying I'm not a Catholic. Part of the reason I stumbled into this channel was because I wanted to learn to respect Catholics. It's really helped me understand what I believe and what beliefs don't work for me. I currently consider myself an independent (non-denominational I guess) Christian, as I recently literally moved. One of the most annoying parts of being in the comment section on Father Casey's videos is that someone usually tells me I need to convert. I don't know if he remembers, because it was awhile ago, but I actually messaged Father Casey (back before he was ordained) on Facebook a few times, and even he agreed Catholism wasn't the right fit. I love learning and interfaith discussion. He's an engaging teacher. It's not always about conversion. My soul, my spirit, and my relationship with Christ are fine. I just find the comparisons between what I was taught when I became a Christian, what I believe now, and Catholic teachings fascinating.
This RUclipsr... And father... And guy. Is very diplomatic in almost everything he talks about. It is very sad to see such a comment section even here. I have rediscovered Catholism and prayer through the Divinum Officium this year but... I don't even want to dare saying my heartily faith in here.
I always appreciate your comments and thank you for your willingness to be vulnerable with your questions about. Certainly there are commenters that I would prefer just remain silent.
Just to clarify what I may have said back then (for your sake and for others who may read this): I think that Catholicism professes the fullness of truth and that it is universal to all peoples. Everyone can find a home in it and I hope everyone does. My suggestion that Catholicism might not be a good fit for you was simply an acknowledgment of your current state in life and particular questions, not a suggestion of relativism or deficiency of Catholicism. My thought were that, right now, joining the Church may not be the best thing for you. In the future, however... as you grow, as we grow in our ability to answer your specific questions a bit better, I think that you could find the ultimate answer to all of the most important questions here.
Even I, who am a Catholic, feel annoyed when Catholics do that in RUclips comments, almost more than when Protestants do it. Can't you be interested in something without wanting to convert?? Besides, who ever converts because someone said so? "Catholicism have the fullness of truth", great, but shouldn't that be something people _discover_ instead of a catchphrase to feel orthodox? I'm happy to have you as a "guest" in "Catholic land". I hope you can ignore them without feeling too uncomfortable, and that you might convert *only* if someday you're freely convinced our faith is true.
PS: Just finished reading "Catholics and Protestants: what can we learn from each other" by Peter Kreeft. By Protestants he means Evangelical/low church Protestantism, and you have to be aware it's written for Catholics, so it can feel a bit condescending for a Protestant. But I love and recommend it!
@@jayjaykay111 No offense but this looks like the entire reason why Romans and Orthodox broke up. (I say looks, haven't actually studied the history of where we F'd up as a continent)
@@jayjaykay111 oh I'm transgender. Or more precisely I've been diagnosed with gender dysphoria. I actually haven't actually transitioned due to having struggled due to a disability caused by an accident for a little bit and of course trying to figure out what role God plays in all of this. And I'm, as of March, an involuntarily restricted Mormon.
I think that diversity is something to be celebrated and discussed as opposed to just saying “we’re all the same” or that “we all believe the same theology” because that’s just not true. That doesn’t mean we need to go start another crusade, but that does mean that we need a new conversation. How can people with different faiths lovingly interact and produce good fruit in the world? What does that look like? Interfaith dialogue gives people the opportunity to explore Christianity and also gives Christians the opportunity to see how God works in the world and reaches people in different ways.
I think this is how conversion works. It comes from having honest conversations about differences, not just insisting that we’re all the same or worse, threaten others with hellfire if they don’t convert. Conversion is a personal journey of faith and it can be enriched by people of other perspectives while maintaining its identity. Ultimately, people are gonna have to make the choice of what they believe for themselves and nothing we tell them is going to change them. But people need to have the distinct, Christian option to choose. Otherwise, they’ll never consider what Christianity has to offer. We are Christian for a reason and I think that’s a beautiful thing.
Awesome upload once again! 🍃
Jaime Gabriel Trazo thank you!
Is there anyone who has experience with communities like Chemin Neuf? Specifically this one is originally from France, nowadays it's in many countries. Their mission is to connect different Christians (Catholics, Protestants, Orthodox) and take place events mainly for young people, pray together and worship God. What is your point of view on this?
It's wonderful we can get past deep-seated animosity towards people who have other religions and be charitable to one another, (and I don't want to go back to any other alternative). What concerns me however are when JW's and Mormons draw in converts from all over the world with their efforts by the thousands. Especially in prior predominant Catholic countries like in Latin America. Not all religions are the same or equal in truth. Truth can be self-evident in certain regards and therefore be found in many other teachings. Like the "Golden Rule" (Matt. 7:12) can be found in virtually every religion with decent people. But yet, the Catholic Church has the fullness of truth. We Catholics shouldn't compromise that fact. Thank you, Fr. Casey for your great video.
I'm an atheist -- though my Christian wife claims I am agnostic. Nevertheless I find religion to be an interesting construct and not without value to humanity regardless of whether or not God exists. I was raised Catholic through my first 15 years as well. These are all interesting presentations.
There are beautiful mysteries of life that the Church teaches us. It is only about good news.
Keep asking questions and searching my friend! I was an Atheist for many years as well, just keep researching and maybe you’ll be lead to the Catholic Faith
Come back bruh, Jesus is waiting for you! We need you in the team.
Relax, sit down, and enjoy. We have pop corns.
My professor of canon law once said something along the lines of: "The problem is, there are so many joint declarations (meaning declarations between Churches) - but they mostly keep piling up in drawers instead of being put into action..."
I think we (Christians) DO have more in common than we usually think. I hope you'll do a follow-up and describe something you actually did gain from an ecumenical encounter.
I loved the bit about what St. Francis learned from his encounter with Muslims! Thank you.
Brother Casey I agree with you. I know I have trouble with any dialogues about differences whether religious or otherwise. You provide a great guide - to be ourselves and encourage honest discussions.
I am in a Protestant Bible Study. It’s not as though I don’t think they are Christian, or that they aren’t saved, but at best, their perspective on Christianity, especially their terminology, is like looking at a very distorted mirror.
had the discussion with people that all religions are the same or are in the end the same... "They all want the same".... That is just wrong. It is not even something where we can different opinions... A Hindu and a Catholic, A Buddhist and a Jew, a Sikh and a Muslim are not the same. Non parring of these are the same. The Judeo-Christian beliefs are close to one another and all religions have an Ethic system behind them, but they are not the same because of that.
Thanks for pointing that out.
I think that it is important to speak with one another and that it is important to see one another not as enemies but as Friends. That does not mean we have to agree with one another on everything or overlook our differences. We should find ways to smooth over radical positions of converting one another and so on.
An example of that working fine is the Veshak messages from the Vatikan. I like to read them. I as a Buddhist like this friendly message and it is followed by something that the pope finds important in the world and asking to pray for it.
It is just a nice friendly coexisting without having to pretend we would not be different. We can work together without becoming like one another. But as a person of special position in the religious community, it is Important to signal that we can be friends. If not tribalism can overcome all of us. What starts as a rivalry can then soon be a religious war.
Thanks, great message! I am part of an ecumenical Christian community, and we have Jesus and baptism in common, which allows us to live life in Christ together in every way except Church worship and sacraments. That is, we serve each other, have meals and celebrate together, help each other move, bring meals when we are sick, and meet in small men’s and women’s groups. We do worship God together by singing and praying in the Spirit. We also talk about our differences, but always in respectful ways and never to try to convert each other. This is extremely rich and fruitful and I find it makes people committed to their own church denominations even more, while increasing their respect for the strengths and contributions of the others. It also happens that other Christians, like my own husband, sometimes become Catholic because of how they see us as brothers and sisters and have a chance to know each other and share life. I love how you describe the round table discussions at your college! Yes!
Dear Father Casey, what about this phrase: "Outside the Church there is no salvation" (extra ecclesiam nulla salus)?
“The holy universal Church teaches that it is not possible to worship God truly except in Her and asserts that all who are outside of Her will not be saved.” -Pope Saint Gregory the Great (590-604).
This is a dogma of faith, right? Could you explain a little more? Thanks and peace and good.
Hey fam! He actually did a video on the dogma in this video: ruclips.net/video/8d5nZ3qdVtU/видео.html
I'm not entirely sure what that question has to do with this video... The point of Ecumenism and interreligious dialogue is not to deny our faith or accept others', but to grow in understanding (and maybe even evangelize.)
That said, the historical line that you quote requires an understanding of its cultural context. I made a video about it a few years ago: ruclips.net/video/8d5nZ3qdVtU/видео.html
The doctrine has been interpreted a couple different ways throughout Church history, but the view espoused by the catechism is that (1) only the Catholic Church has the FULLNESS of salvation and truth, but many faiths have “seeds of the Word” that still have some lesser truth and salvific power-especially other branches of the Abrahamic and Christian family tree, as all Abrahamic faiths worship the one true God, and all trinitarian Christians at least have a valid Baptism if no other sacraments (some have more, others have less) so are members of Christ’s mystical body even if they are born into an atrophying limb of that body not receiving the full blood required to sustain it. (2) When the doctrine was first formulated it was formulated with the idea that all the ends of the Earth had already heard the good news, so everyone was making a conscious or unconscious choice to be or not be Christian (since the Catholic Church was the only Christian Church in Europe at the time) as our view of the world has widened, it has become ever the more clear that the Christian message has not reached many places and been garbled or misinterpreted to the point of unrecognizability in many others, and someone who is legitimately ignorant of the truth of Christianity, either by not knowing the gospel period or by knowing only a crude, unpersuasive straw effigy of the Church constructed by the Church’s enemies (such as the impressions of the Church that many atheists and protestants are fed) God will not punish them for their ignorance; but of course if someone realizes the Catholic Church is the one true Church, they have a moral duty to act on that knowledge if they wish to be saved. (3) We really have no idea about what will happen salvation-wise with regards to the second coming, second march through Hell and final judgement, and while it will be “very soon” we also know it has been “very soon” for over 2000 years. We only know they will happen and that God is perfectly loving and perfectly just, that the Church will be perfected with him, and that Sin will be vanquished forever. And while there will likely still be “outside the Church...no savation” who will be part of that finally transformed Church is another question entirely, one we cannot answer in this life.
IONATVS this man is spittin’! Thank you for explaining so clearly!
@@IONATVS Notice how you don't even cite anything. Just your own opinions. Here is what the church rather says. No, there are no seeds in other faiths, they might have some truth to them, but everyone in them is saved despite them, not because of them. The gods of the Gentiles are demons. The others are heresies and schisms.
“We declare, say, define, and pronounce that it is absolutely necessary for the salvation of every human creature to be subject to the Roman Pontiff.” (Pope Boniface VIII, the Bull Unam Sanctam, 1302.)
“The most Holy Roman Church firmly believes, professes and preaches that none of those existing outside the Catholic Church, not only pagans, but also Jews and heretics and schismatics, can have a share in life eternal; but that they will go into the eternal fire which was prepared for the devil and his angels, unless before death they are joined with Her; and that so important is the unity of this ecclesiastical body that only those remaining within this unity can profit by the sacraments of the Church unto salvation, and they alone can receive an eternal recompense for their fasts, their almsgivings, their other works of Christian piety and the duties of a Christian soldier. No one, let his almsgiving be as great as it may, no one, even if he pour out his blood for the Name of Christ, can be saved, unless he remain within the bosom and the unity of the Catholic Church.” (Pope Eugene IV, the Bull Cantate Domino, 1441.)
Invincible ignorance is indeed a thing, but even if the person thinks that it might be so and refuses to look more into it, they no longer have it. Also, you know we don't refer to salvation as being the second coming. What are you even talking about? Quote something at least, you are not the Church, nor are you the pope.
thank you for this my mother is catholic and father is mulism so thank you
This one of the few times where I must disagree with Fr. Casey. One of the leading religious thinkers of the 20th century, Rabbi Dr Joseph Soloveitchick, opppsed interfaith dialogue but only when it involved a discussion of the religious principles of each faith community. He felt that the language used by each faith community could be understood only within that faith community. Outside of the community, the words used may be meaningless or mean something so different that no discussion is possible. It is therefore best to avoid the effort, no matter how well intentioned it may be.
What a wonderful message for these times when we need to be greeting each other as "friend" and understanding each other. Thank you.
Ecumenism shouldn't be vague
Ecumenism at the very least should be done in councils, like in Nicaea
I agree with the other Christians in these comments regarding the LORD Jesus Christ. I am a Protestant. I am ready to pull out, "Dominus Iesus," by Cardinal Ratzinger, (aka. Pope Benedict XVI), and his book, "The Church as Communion," to state that we will not compromise on the fact that the LORD Jesus Christ is God Almighty come in the flesh, second Person of the Trinity, as stated in The Apostles', Nicene, and Athanasian Creeds. This is taught throughout Scripture, example John 1. Without Him there will be a worldwide religion formed, that is not True Christianity, or True Catholicism AT ALL.
Personally, I can agree that talking about our differences in faith strengthens it much more!😁
Thank you Father, for distinguishing between the ecumenism we are always called to which was articulated by the fathers at VII and the cheap kumbaya imitation of our modern day.
The twofold ends of ecumenism are on the one hand the gathering of all people into the fullness of Christ's peace in the fullness of communion in Christ's Church, and on the other the preserving at least material peace amongst peoples in the meantime.
If what we believe is true, then the ultimate end of productive dialogue with the brother Bishops who are not in full communion with the Bishop of Rome, with our brothers and sisters in baptism who are not in communion with any particular Apostolic Church and with our brothers and sisters in the human family who have not yet been baptized is that the truth will become clear. Experience has shown this, and I've seen many conversions occur because of this (many more than have come from non-Catholics being beaten over the head with a Catechism).
It's also worth remembering that Vatican II commenced 17 years after the end of the second World War. A healthy recognition of what we have in common is helpful in avoiding a repeat the horrors seen during the past centuries - but it is certainly not an end in itself!
Ecumenism from the right perspective: Because of our differences we come to share our faith so that our misconceptions minimise in the process. I agree totally. Good New ecumenical Approach.🤗🤗🤗
Well articulated. Thank you.
I'm only interested in ecumenism with the Orthodox (Eastern'/Copts/Armenian). I understand other Catholics are interested in protestants or people of other faiths, I'm not in that group. I don't hate them or dislike them, I'm just not interested.
USA is founded on the idea that it is possible under a constitution that is mindful of ethics and human rights keeping State and Religion separated. However in my experience the fundamental differences do get in the way. Corporate McDonald's does shop different than In N Out Burgers. Should a flock frequent all the joints? Should one flock cast stones at another? At the end of the day both shops just trying to make some burgers, some money, and people happy.
It's nice to hear someone voice truth and not just a politically correct version that makes you "feel" good but keeps you ignorant. Keep up the good work brother.
These meeting are not as you said a time to proselytize...yes? Being open to questions and answering them honestly with what "we" believe as Catholics is good. Amen Fr. Casey. Yes, still the coolest priest I've never met!
Good video. As a protestant, I have been inspired by you and other Catholics. I have also heard Muslims and Buddhists speak words of wisdom. That does not mean I will convert nor will I become a Catholic. I am certain all great things can be found in the Bible, but sometimes non Christians can inspire you to do the things Christians should be doing.
Redentoris Ominis by Pope John Paul ll explains as long as it doesn’t compromise our Catholic beliefs it’s ok. I believe Pope Paul Vl also addresses the issue in a general audience.
So are we saying that the main reason for ecumenical dialogue is to create the opportunity to convert others to our position? The fact is that many Christians and perhaps most Muslims believe that anyone who dies outside of their respective faith, (having first understood it), will almost certainly go to hell. It's going to be very difficult, in the context of an honest inter-faith conversation, for either side to persuade the other to come around to their view, given how strongly so many Christians and Muslims believe their own faith claims. I can understand why inter-religious dialogues end up feeling vague and nebulous - because the central claims of most religions contradict each other so starkly that there is simply no reconciling them, so the only options available are either to find common ground, which would seem to be the more civilised way, or to resume conflict, which of course has been the way of history.
The only non-Catholic Christian groups that we should be in dialogue with
*Eastern Orthodox Church
*Oriental Orthodoxy
*Assyrian Church of the East
*Ancient Church of the East
*High church Anglican Communion
*High church Lutheranism
Oh like that purple liberal bumper sticker ?
☪️☮️E✡️🌡️☯️✝️
Not!
God bless you Fr. Casey!
Well said!
I think the The Autonomous Orthodox Metropolitan of North and South America and the British Isles still enforces the canonical prohibition against joint prayer with non-Chalcedonians and Roman Catholics. This could extend to Orthodox Christians who are not under a "True Orthodox" Bishop but I am not sure about that. They certainly oppose ecumenism very firmly.
Wise words. This is all to avoid the "cancel culture", which claims that you should ignore all the qualities and achievements of a person if there is the least amount of disagreement. It is the result of an earlier thought, which said that to like a person means to accept him completely, including his defects, which is totally against the gospel.
My biggest growths in the faith were with conversations with people from others. Dogmas até only celebrated because there are heresies.
I am a part-time business owner and I've been told not to post about any religion on social media because it's "bad for my business." Do I listen to that? No. I love my business, but I love Jesus more. I am an entrepreneur, but I am a follower of Christ first. And if I didn't express my faith just for the comfort of others, then I would be doing Christ a HUGE disservice because He literally calls each and every one of us to do just that. It makes me sad that people think they have to water down their love for Christ just for others' comfort when Christ Himself never said following Him would be comfortable.