Can Non-Catholics Go to Heaven? This Is What the Catechism Says
Does the Shepherd recognize sheep not of His fold?
In this episode of "The Catholic Talk Show," Ryan Scheel and Ryan DellaCrosse discuss Pope Francis’ comments on all religions leading to God and the Church’s teachings on other religions.
They explain what the Church actually says about the salvation of non-Catholics.
According to the Catechism, the Church teaches that salvation comes through Christ and His Church. However, salvation is possible for non-Catholics under certain conditions.
“Those who, through no fault of their own, do not know the Gospel of Christ or His Church, but who nevertheless seek God with a sincere heart and moved by grace, try in their actions to do His will as they know it through the dictates of their conscience—those too may achieve eternal salvation.” (CCC, 847)
Knowingly turning away from Christ and His Church is different from those who have never had the opportunity to know Him. Sincere seekers of God may attain salvation, even if they are not part of the Church. This comes from the concept of ‘invincible ignorance’ of Christ.
“Even though God can save whoever He wants," Scheel explains, "The Church still has the command and the right to evangelize all people because this is the truth—this is the Church founded on Peter.”
While God's mercy is boundless, it doesn't diminish the Church's obligation to guide others toward salvation through the Sacraments.
The Church also teaches that evangelization plays a big part in salvation.
DellaCrosse reminds us that “the direction of the Church to those outside of it should be to bring them into it—it shouldn't be to tell them they're okay where they are.”
He adds that sharing the faith lovingly and truthfully is the best way to lead others toward Christ.
The guys say that understanding these teachings will help Catholics better share our faith!