Steve2
The RCC is like the BORG, is like the Lutherans, is llike the Baptists, is like the Methodist, is like the Presbyterians, is like the Evangelical Christians, etc., etc., and etc. The are all similar and the same. They all have their leaders who's words and edicts, in most cases, have some sort of finality to them. In a majority of cases, like the RCC for instance, negotiation, comment, criticism, or just plan arguing a point of doctrine, is permissible. I can disagree with RCC doctrine, even disagree with the Pope, without a threat of dissassociation, disfellowship, or shunning. Priests don't come to someones door wanting to know why a mass or two was missed. 50% of the RCC don't spy on the other 50% like the JW's do hoping to catch someone smoking or watching a R rated movie, then reporting to an Elder.
The Pope is not always the final authority! He can be overruled, but seldom is, if he pronounces some off-the-wall rule or regulation (like the WTS does a lot). This is what the College of Cardinals, and others, are all about, a sort of checks and balance. He is not a dictator, nor in any way, shape or form anything like the WTS Governing body. Who checks up on the Governing Body? Who is their checks and balance? Who is going to tell them that committing suicide, or murder, by refusing a blood transfusion is really stupid. Who is going to tell them anything, without fear of being booted. I have know people who have been away from the RCC for years. No one bugs or bothers them, and they are welcomed back, if they so decide, with no questions asked.
The WTBTS/JW's are an animal unto their own. They are a cult the holds its members in check through fear and guilt. The RCC, and the Pope, is 2000 years strong, give or take a few years, albeit with a very colored history. Although there have been numerous procedural changes over this time period, the essential idea and doctrine has really never changed, that is, the body and blood of Jesus Christ, and the celebration of this during mass.
