Catholic Answers Live #12461 Why Stay Catholic If Orthodox Have Valid Sacraments? - William Albrecht
Nov 17, 2025
In this discussion, William Albrecht, an apologist and founder of Patristic Pillars, delves into why one might choose to remain Catholic when Orthodox sacraments are valid. He explains the importance of papal authority for doctrinal unity, the differing interpretations of Jesus' image in Catholicism versus Orthodoxy, and the significance of Marian doctrines like the Assumption. Albrecht also addresses the nuances of disagreeing with a priest and the historical context of the Filioque controversy, emphasizing Christ's call for visible unity.
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Catholicism Claims The Fullness Of Faith
- William Albrecht argues Eastern and Oriental Orthodox have valid sacraments but lack the "fullness of the faith."
- He says papal primacy, filioque, Immaculate Conception, and Purgatory mark Catholic completeness.
John 21 Underpins Petrine Primacy
- Albrecht reads John 21 to show Peter receives a universal pastoral mandate to "shepherd my flock."
- He concludes the visible head on earth is the successor of Peter, which supports papal primacy.
Peter's Tomb Supports Roman Claim
- Albrecht says Peter's tomb beneath St. Peter's altar supports Catholic claims Peter died in Rome.
- He cautions relics alone don't prove institutional legitimacy in other cases.