Understanding Your Catholic Neighbors – Sunday Class

Here in southern Texas, many of our neighbors, coworkers, and family members are Catholic or come from a Catholic background. “Understanding Our Catholic Neighbors” is designed to help evangelicals grow in clarity, compassion, and confidence as we interact with those whose faith traditions differ from our own.

Over eight weeks, we will explore the history, beliefs, and practices of the Catholic Church, including topics like the rise of the papacy, views of salvation, the veneration of Mary, the sacraments, the Crusades, and the growth of Catholicism in America. We will also compare Baptist and Catholic beliefs and discuss practical ways to share our faith with gentleness and respect.

This study is presented from an evangelical perspective, yet the tone will be warm, respectful, and gracious. You are welcome to invite your Catholic neighbors, friends, and family members to attend with you as we seek to better understand one another and engage in meaningful conversations about Christian faith and practice.

Dr. Rex D. Butler is a retired Professor of Church History from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He has authored and contributed to numerous publications and has led church history workshops throughout Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Tennessee, Texas, and Illinois, as well as in China, Cuba, and Ukraine.

Rex and his wife, Margie, have been married for 44 years. They have two sons, Truett and David. David and his wife Holland, along with their three children, are active members of The MET Church.