well, Ed... I only spent 8 years in Catholic school which ended in 1964,

so I have no clue what changes have occurred since they went from masses said in Latin to English. but they did make a big deal out of having free will. They have a different catechism now than I did, I think, as well.

I am an atheist because it is the outlook most compatible with me as a person. I expect that there are those who gravitate towards some kind of spiritual belief that works for them.

this thread topic is highly subjective and impossible to answer to the satisfaction of all. it assumes a definitive answer where none can exist.