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Dear Anonymous,
Thanks for the question.
Let's look at the example Our Blessed Lord gave us.
- Did he surround Himself only with those of His intellect?
Of course not, and neither should we.
Here's a question: Before ascending into Heaven did Jesus say:
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations only if the are Catholic Christians.
No, He wants us to be good witnesses for all mankind.
Because salvation is for all mankind. Nevertheless, I think your Catholic friends have good intentions.
For the same reason we don't recommend Catholics go to Protestant Bible Studies.
Because these Bible Studies have an underlying assumption:
- That Catholics are wrong in some, if not all, of their teachings, and
- Catholics can't interpret their own Bible correctly.
There are also many fallen-away Catholics at these Bible Studies, so you are likely to hear a lot of bitterness and resentment, justified or not.
If one is not well-versed in a Catholic understanding of each book of the Bible, they can be persuaded to believe in false, erroneous teachings.
Personally, I would encourage you to make as many non-Catholic friends as possible while at the same time taking enough time to study and know the faith and the Scriptures, from a Catholic viewpoint.
It's a warm, welcoming personality accompanied by a kind, giving attitude that will draw people to you, so much, they will say, "I want to be like that person!"
When your slow but steady Catholic witness appeals to others, you can share with them the power of the sacramental life of the Church they are missing out on.
Side note: The fact that your Catholic friends are telling you not to associate with non-Catholics may say something about how knowledgeable they are about their own faith — not much.
I hope this helps,
Mike
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