Bishop Schneider’s CREDO #208

Posted on November 4, 2023 by Father Joe

I am surprised we are hearing so little upset about Bishop Schneider’s CREDO catechism. He mixes truths with his opinion in ways that can be quite seductive. I want to like his work, but it troubles me.

The truth be said, the Koran does misunderstand the Trinity, substituting the Virgin Mary for the Holy Spirit. Its adherents reject what they do not understand. The cause for the confusion is because the deity and religion of Islam is the result of an incomplete syncretism or amalgamation of beliefs extracted from Judaism, Christianity and the local tribal cults prevalent during Mohammad’s lifetime.

Bishop Schneider answers “no” to his question although it is posed as a negative or “not” query. Remember, English is not his first language. What he really means to say is, “Yes,” we do not share the Trinitarian God in common with Muslims. But, it still seems that he might over-make his case. Our differences are real but must one perfectly understand God in order to honor him?

Again, Bishop Schneider does not hesitate to contradict Pope John Paul II or the Vatican II teaching which he labels “ambiguous.” What he means to say behind tepid language is that the Council is wrong.

Lumen Gentium 16 – “Finally, those who have not yet received the Gospel are related in various ways to the people of God. In the first place we must recall the people to whom the testament and the promises were given and from whom Christ was born according to the flesh. On account of their fathers this people remains most dear to God, for God does not repent of the gifts He makes nor of the calls He issues. But the plan of salvation also includes those who acknowledge the Creator. In the first place amongst these there are the Muslims, who, professing to hold the faith of Abraham, along with us adore the one and merciful God, who on the last day will judge mankind. Nor is God far distant from those who in shadows and images seek the unknown God, for it is He who gives to all men life and breath and all things, and as Savior wills that all men be saved. Those also can attain to salvation who through no fault of their own do not know the Gospel of Christ or His Church, yet sincerely seek God and moved by grace strive by their deeds to do His will as it is known to them through the dictates of conscience. Nor does Divine Providence deny the helps necessary for salvation to those who, without blame on their part, have not yet arrived at an explicit knowledge of God and with His grace strive to live a good life. Whatever good or truth is found amongst them is looked upon by the Church as a preparation for the Gospel. She knows that it is given by Him who enlightens all men so that they may finally have life. But often men, deceived by the Evil One, have become vain in their reasonings and have exchanged the truth of God for a lie, serving the creature rather than the Creator. Or some there are who, living and dying in this world without God, are exposed to final despair. Wherefore to promote the glory of God and procure the salvation of all of these, and mindful of the command of the Lord, ‘Preach the Gospel to every creature,’ the Church fosters the missions with care and attention.”