Originally posted by Rajk999
Like I already suggested reading a little further helps to explain what the Catholic document is saying. In the very next paragraph, 17 it says [b] ...that God's plan may be fully realized, whereby He has constituted Christ as the source of salvation for the whole world...
Salvation is through Christ. Thats the reason why its important for the Church to ...[text shortened]... only through Christ and conversion to Christianity.
Thats my understanding of the document.[/b]
That reading would negate the plain language of 16. Besides that already quoted, there's this:
Nor does Divine Providence deny the helps necessary for salvation to those who, without blame on their part, have not yet arrived at an explicit knowledge of God and with His grace strive to live a good life. Whatever good or truth is found amongst them is looked upon by the Church as a preparation for the Gospel.(20*) She knows that it is given by Him who enlightens all men so that they may finally have life. But often men, deceived by the Evil One, have become vain in their reasonings and have exchanged the truth of God for a lie, serving the creature rather than the Creator.(129) Or some there are who, living and dying in this world without God, are exposed to final despair. Wherefore to promote the glory of God and procure the salvation of all of these, and mindful of the command of the Lord, "Preach the Gospel to every creature",(130) the Church fosters the missions with care and attention.
I would say that the interpretation that gives effect to both is that you can possibly get salvation without being a member of the Church, but it helps a lot if you are. Though unlike some of the "Christians" here, the RCC doesn't believe that anybody can know whether they are saved or not during this life.