The Catholic Church, facing its biggest scandal in recent years, has sacked a priest in the Philippines after he and a colleague openly challenged the centuries-old celibacy rule by getting married. Father Canto, 36, and his 24-year-old bride wed before more than 500 people in Balagian, a remote village in the central prvince of Iloilo. He wore his cassock during the ceremony as a statement to the church that he had no intention of stepping down as a priest after his honeymoon. The wedding was officiated at by father Jesus Siva who could now face suspension or even dismissal. He claims it was a civil wedding and not a religious ceremony.

Mantis

The Roman Catholic Church is NOT THE ONLY CATHOLIC CHURCH in the world.

Here are some Bible verses, historical writings, and scholarly studies showing that the apostles had different understandings of Jesus and that the first century of Christianity was not a homogenous belief system: Bible Verses Paul and James on Faith and Works Paul: "For we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from the works of the law." (Romans 3:28, NIV) James: "You see that a person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone." (James 2:24, NIV) These verses blatantly contradict each other, with Paul and James promoting fundamentally different paths to righteousness, showcasing the blatant theological rift among early Christian leaders. Paul and Peter on Gentile Converts Paul: "For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love." (Galatians 5:6, ESV) Peter: Initially enforced Jewish customs on Gentile converts before a vision forced his reluctant acceptance (Acts 10:9-16). This flip-flopping reveals a sharp divide and hesitation among apostolic leaders on how to treat non-Jewish believers. John and Synoptic Gospels on Jesus' Nature John: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." (John 1:1, NIV) Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke): These texts present a more human, relatable Jesus, focusing on his teachings, miracles, and parables. The disparity here is glaring, with John almost deifying Jesus while the Synoptics keep him grounded in humanity. Historical Writings Eusebius of Caesarea: In Ecclesiastical History, Eusebius highlights a chaotic array of early Christian sects, each with their own radically different doctrines and practices. This historical account underscores the tumultuous and fragmented nature of early Christianity. Irenaeus: In Against Heresies, Irenaeus exposes a fractured early Church, battling heretical groups that held wildly divergent views of Jesus and his message. The fact that such a treatise was necessary is a testament to the widespread doctrinal disarray. Didache: This early Christian text reveals practices and teachings starkly different from those in the New Testament, further proving that early Christianity was far from a unified belief system but rather a collection of competing ideologies. Scholarly Studies Bart D. Ehrman: In Lost Christianities: The Battles for Scripture and the Faiths We Never Knew, Ehrman meticulously documents the vast array of early Christian beliefs, proving beyond doubt that early Christianity was a battleground of conflicting doctrines and rival texts. James D. G. Dunn: In Unity and Diversity in the New Testament: An Inquiry into the Character of Earliest Christianity, Dunn lays bare the theological chaos within the New Testament itself, making it clear that early Christianity was anything but a monolith. Elaine Pagels: In The Gnostic Gospels, Pagels provides irrefutable evidence of the diversity and conflict in early Christian thought, with Gnostic texts offering radically different perspectives on Jesus and his teachings compared to orthodox Christianity. These references make it abundantly clear that the early Christian movement was a hotbed of doctrinal conflict and theological discord. The apostles themselves often couldn't agree on fundamental issues, leading to a fragmented and contentious early Christian landscape.

No need to debate, you have to study, study, study and understand what you have readed!!!!!..

Jesus Christ Said "In This Rock I Will Build My Church" He mentioned only Church, He did not mentioned, I Will Build My Roman Catholic church, even in the Bible Jesus did not mentioned that only Roman Catholic is His Church....

How come that only Roman Catholic is the church of Jesus!!

As Long as we believe's in Jesus Christ as long we follow his commandments, we are all the church of God Jesus Christ!!!!

Not All Catholics Are Roman Catholics First, it's crucial to understand that Catholicism is not synonymous with Roman Catholicism alone. The term "Catholic" means "universal," encompassing various traditions within the Christian faith, including the Roman Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Churches, Oriental Orthodox Churches, Old Catholic Churches, and Independent Catholic Churches like the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI). Each of these traditions maintains valid apostolic lineages and adheres to core Christian doctrines. Valid but Illicit Sacraments: St. Augustine’s Perspective St. Augustine, a revered theologian, articulated the concept of sacraments being valid but illicit when performed by heretical or schismatic priests. This means that while these sacraments genuinely confer grace, they are performed outside the proper ecclesiastical authority. This principle supports the validity of sacraments and ordinations within Independent Catholic Churches, even if they are not recognized by the Roman Catholic Church. Apostolic Succession in the Independent Catholic Tradition The IFI and other Independent Catholic Churches maintain Apostolic Succession through an unbroken chain of consecrated bishops tracing back to the Apostles. For instance, the IFI received Apostolic Succession from the Episcopal Church of the United States of America (ECUSA) on April 7, 1948. Bishops Maximo Isabelo de los Reyes Jr., Gerardo Bayaca, and Manuel Aguilar were consecrated by Norman Binsted, Bishop of the Missionary District of the Philippines, with co-consecrators Robert Franklin Wilner and Harry Scherbourne. This historical event affirmed the IFI's place within the broader apostolic tradition. Biblical References Stolen Blessing of Isaac’s Son (Genesis 27:35-36): "But he said, 'Your brother came deceitfully and took your blessing.' Esau said, 'Isn't he rightly named Jacob? This is the second time he has taken advantage of me: He took my birthright, and now he's taken my blessing!' Then he asked, 'Haven't you reserved any blessing for me?'" This passage highlights the importance of blessings and inheritance, which can be paralleled with the concept of legitimate apostolic succession and the transmission of ecclesiastical authority. Priest Forever in the Order of Melchizedek (Hebrews 7:17): "For it is declared: 'You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.'" This verse underscores the eternal nature of the priesthood, reflecting the continuity of apostolic succession and the unbroken line of ecclesiastical authority. Fallacies and Inconsistencies The claim that only the Roman Catholic Church maintains a legitimate apostolic lineage is a common fallacy. It ignores the historical and theological realities of other branches of Catholicism with valid apostolic lines. Independent Catholic Churches, Eastern Orthodox, and Old Catholic Churches have legitimate apostolic succession recognized by various historical and theological standards. Additionally, the argument that the IFI is merely a human creation while the Roman Catholic Church was founded by Christ involves the "no true Scotsman" fallacy. This fallacy arbitrarily redefines the criteria for true apostolic succession to exclude those outside the Roman Catholic tradition. The IFI was established to address specific historical and cultural contexts while maintaining the apostolic tradition, evidenced by its recognized apostolic succession. Use of Clerical Vestments The use of clerical vestments by IFI clergy is a reflection of their adherence to the apostolic tradition and their legitimate role within the broader Catholic Church. Clerical attire symbolizes their commitment to their sacred duties and their continuity with the historic and apostolic Christian ministry. The vestments are not exclusive to the Roman Catholic Church but are part of the shared heritage of Catholic and Orthodox traditions worldwide. Conclusion The Independent Catholic perspective emphasizes the legitimacy of Apostolic Succession and the broader Catholic tradition, which includes the Iglesia Filipina Independiente. The IFI's clerical vestments and practices reflect their continuity with the apostolic ministry and their commitment to the universal Church. Rather than diminishing their legitimacy, these elements underscore their rightful place within the broader Catholic communion, supported by historical precedent, theological insights, and scriptural references.

Complexity of Matthew 16:18-20 Peter as the Rock: In this passage, Jesus refers to Peter as the rock upon which He will build His Church. This has been interpreted in different ways, with some viewing it as a foundational role for Peter in the early Church. Satan Rebuke: In Matthew 16:23, Jesus rebukes Peter by saying, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns." This moment highlights the tension between Peter's human understanding and God's divine plan, emphasizing the fallibility of human leaders. Church and Ministerial Authority: Jesus also speaks about the keys of the kingdom of heaven, symbolizing authority and responsibility within the Church. This relates to the broader concept of ministerial roles and the nature of the Church as a community of believers. Understanding True Church and Ministerial Roles True Church: Jesus emphasizes in Matthew 18:20 that where two or three gather in His name, He is there among them. This suggests that the true essence of the Church lies in genuine faith and fellowship centered on Christ, rather than institutional structures or hierarchy. True Christian Minister: Jesus teaches in Mark 10:43-45 that true greatness in ministry comes from being a servant to others, following His example of humility and selflessness. Apostolic Equality and Jesus' Teachings Equal Roles: While Peter plays a significant role in the early Church, Jesus' teachings emphasize the equality of all apostles and the importance of collaborative leadership (Matthew 20:25-28). James' Authority: The Gospel of Thomas reflects Jesus' recognition of James' authority among the apostles, suggesting a shared leadership model rather than sole reliance on Peter (Gospel of Thomas, Saying 12). Conclusion The complexity of Matthew 16:18-20 underscores the multifaceted nature of biblical teachings on church structure, ministerial authority, and apostolic roles. While Peter is highlighted in this passage, Jesus' broader teachings emphasize humility, service, and communal fellowship as essential aspects of true Christian ministry and the authentic Church.

Founders and Freemasonry It is true that both Gregorio Aglipay and Isabelo de los Reyes, the founders of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI), were involved in Freemasonry. However, it's important to understand the context in which they operated and the reasons for their actions. Freemasonry played a significant role in the Filipino nationalist movement against Spanish colonial rule, which was closely tied to the Roman Catholic Church. Many Filipino patriots, including Aglipay and de los Reyes, saw Freemasonry as a means to promote their struggle for independence and reform. Their involvement in Freemasonry was more about their political and social ideals rather than a rejection of Christian faith or Catholic principles. Apostolic Succession and Ecclesiastical Authority Despite their involvement in Freemasonry, the apostolic succession of the IFI is independent of the personal beliefs or affiliations of its founders. The apostolic succession was established through the consecration of bishops by the Episcopal Church of the United States of America (ECUSA) on April 7, 1948, as previously mentioned. This consecration ensures the IFI's legitimate connection to the apostolic tradition. Isabelo de los Reyes’ Reconciliation Regarding Isabelo de los Reyes' return to the Roman Catholic Church and his confession before his death, it highlights the complexity of individual faith journeys. De los Reyes' reconciliation with the Roman Catholic Church does not negate the legitimacy of the IFI or its apostolic succession. His personal decision at the end of his life is a testament to his faith and should be respected, but it does not alter the historical and ecclesiastical foundation of the IFI. Validity of Apostolic Succession The principle of Apostolic Succession relies on the continuity of episcopal consecrations tracing back to the Apostles. This principle is recognized across various branches of Christianity, including the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Independent Catholic traditions. The IFI’s apostolic succession remains valid due to the legitimate consecrations performed by bishops within the apostolic lineage, regardless of the founders' personal affiliations. St. Augustine’s Perspective on Valid but Illicit Sacraments St. Augustine's concept that sacraments performed by heretical or schismatic clergy are valid but illicit supports the IFI's sacraments and ordinations. This means that even if the IFI is seen as separated from the Roman Catholic Church, its sacraments still confer genuine grace, affirming their legitimacy. Biblical References Supporting Apostolic Succession Priest Forever in the Order of Melchizedek (Hebrews 7:17): "For it is declared: 'You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.'" This verse underscores the enduring nature of the priesthood and the continuity of ecclesiastical authority. Stolen Blessing of Isaac’s Son (Genesis 27:35-36): "But he said, 'Your brother came deceitfully and took your blessing.' Esau said, 'Isn't he rightly named Jacob? This is the second time he has taken advantage of me: He took my birthright, and now he's taken my blessing!' Then he asked, 'Haven't you reserved any blessing for me?'" This passage highlights the importance of rightful inheritance and blessings, paralleling the concept of legitimate apostolic succession. Conclusion The involvement of IFI founders in Freemasonry does not diminish the church’s legitimacy or its apostolic succession. The IFI maintains a valid apostolic lineage through the consecrations performed by the Episcopal Church of the United States of America. Isabelo de los Reyes’ reconciliation with the Roman Catholic Church is a personal matter that does not affect the IFI's ecclesiastical foundation. The principles of Apostolic Succession and the validity of sacraments, as articulated by St. Augustine, support the legitimacy of the IFI’s sacraments and ordinations.