WASHINGTON -- Many non-Catholic Americans believe the Catholic Church exhibits too much control over its members and doesn't let them think for themselves, according to a survey released May 24.
The survey of 550 non-Catholics across America was conducted in March by the Rev. Andrew Greeley, a priest, sociologist and author. Greeley told the Washington Post the survey was planned prior to the Catholic Church's sex abuse scandals. The scandals, however, likely influenced survey results, Greeley said.
Seventy-three percent of respondents said they believe Catholics do what the pope and bishops tell them to do; 52 percent said Catholics are not permitted to think for themselves.
Instead of worshipping only God, Catholics also worship Mary and the saints, according to 83 percent of the survey's respondents. Fifty-seven percent believe the statues and images in Catholic churches are idols.
The survey also revealed some positive views, according to the Washington Post. Ninety-three percent said Catholics can be good Americans, and 85 percent thought Catholic schools make important contributions to education.
