Similarities & Differences Between Catholicism And Fundamentalism

By Shawn Hunter


People are of varying opinions on whether real differences exist between being a fundamentalist and being a catholic. Questions have been asked in several online answer sites, in relation to this issue. Some people have taken this matter to web-based church forums. It is common to see heated debates on social media about this topic. It is easy to compare and contrast Catholicism and fundamentalism. On the outset, these are separate school of thoughts each with different goals, agendas, and beliefs. As much as differences do exist, there is still more than one point of convergence. There seems to be some similarities.

Examination of historical aspects automatically differentiates these ideologies. On one hand, it is said that the first Catholics started practicing their Faith, almost two millennia ago. The Early church is said to be the beginning of Catholicism with the contemporary Catholic Church simply being a continuation. Christian fundamentalism has lasted for slightly more than a century. There might have been earlier manifestations of this agenda but the earliest gatherings of people who identified themselves as fundamentals, happened in early 20th century when the ground was officially laid for this movement.

The major denomination in the world is Catholic. It has a following in all the major continents of the world. Fundamentalist flock does not in any way constitute a denomination. The best word that describes it is a movement within the wider Protestant church. This movement was formed by American and British protestants who rejected the ideals of theological liberalism and cultural modernism that had started to take root in the Protestant church. There are a good number of churches in the world that can be labeled as fundamentalist.

Catholicism has its root in Europe. The center of this Faith is at the Holy See, in Vatican. This is the place where the head of the catholic denomination and other senior members of the church stay. On the other hand, fundamentalist churches are mainly in USA. Therefore, this movement can be considered as largely American. American scholars and pastors drafted the doctrine that actually laid the ground for fundamentalist agenda, in USA. This doctrine is commonly called, "The Fundamentals." It is a twelve-volume set of polemic, apologetic and essays.

Similarities do exist between these religious ideologies. The issue of conservatism is a major point of unison. In catholic and fundamental circles, the major emphasis seems to be on traditional values. It is common to find fundamentalist and strict Catholics who out rightly reject secularism.

Lines of similarity are also drawn on the issue of Virgin Birth and Resurrection of Jesus on the third day. The hope of people from both camps is eternal life and the ultimate return of the Messiah at a date that is only known to God. Both doctrines are grounded on the sinless nature of Jesus Christ. The fact that He was born without sin and died without blame.

This topic has perplexed scholars from different parts of the world. Many church goers usually research this religious topic. There are books that offer some answers. The easiest and cheapest way to get valuable perspectives is by reading free articles published online.

Catholic Church is centuries old. Fundamentalist movement has existed for slightly over a century. The major similarity is the issue of conservatism and traditional values.




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