Unity in the Church!

1 Corinthians 1:10

I appeal to you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree and that there be no dissensions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment.

Many people have the notion that Catholics believe in Church unity that is summed up in the words “That which is not forbidden is compulsory.”  There seems to be the notion afoot among those who know nothing of the Church that any disagreement among Catholics about anything is a refutation of the claim that the Church is One.  But as G.K. Chesterton observed, the reality is that Catholics are really only asked to be in unity about a few cosmic truths (largely summarized in the Creeds and few dogmas of the Church).  They are free (and rather enjoy) arguing about everything else.  But they are required to argue in charity, not in arrogance or hatred if they are to do it as Catholics.  As was said long ago: “In essential things, unity; in doubtful things, liberty; in all things, charity.”

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Mark P. Shea is a popular Catholic writer and speaker. The author of numerous books, his most recent work is The Work of Mercy (Servant) and The Heart of Catholic Prayer (Our Sunday Visitor). Mark contributes numerous articles to many magazines, including his popular column “Connecting the Dots” for the National Catholic Register. Mark is known nationally for his one minute “Words of Encouragement” on Catholic radio. He also maintains the Catholic and Enjoying It blog and regularly blogs for National Catholic Register. He lives in Washington state with his wife, Janet, and their four sons.

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