[metmom]

"We believe the Church as the mother of our new birth, and not in the Church as if she were the author of our salvation." — Bishop Faustus of Riez

What nonsense. The church doesn't give us new life. The Holy Spirit does. Jesus said so here....

John 6:63 It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life.

Christ established His Church as the means by which people may come to Him. Hence, to willfully place onesself outside the Church founded by Christ is to willfully place oneself in opposition to Christ. Obedience to the Church of Christ is the way in which we comply ourselves with His will and are made, by Him alone, receptive to grace -- the same as with works.

It's the Holy Spirit that enlightens one spiritually and draws men to God.

The Catholic church has some chutzpah to keep taking credit for the work of God the Holy Spirit.

Philippians 2:13 ....for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.

[Wyrd bið ful aræd]

"What nonsense. The church doesn't give us new life. The Holy Spirit does. Jesus said so here...."

Bishop Faustus is referring to the fact that through Christ's passion we are given new life, and that the establishment of Christ's Church fulfils the covenant.

"Philippians 2:13 ....for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure."

That is exactly what I just said.