c_yeager,
I would like to respectfully differ with you on some of your points. You mention, "The notion that accuracy has no relevance to the Vatican is not at all surprising." Not true. When an organization claims to be for the benefit of the spiritual good of man, it will attempt to be as accurate as possible in its actions.
You also mention, "The fact is that the version of the Nicene Creed that was said in her church is a common translation, despite the fact it isnt an approved Roman Catholic translation." That may be so. However, when one is a member of an organization, one normally agrees to abide by the regulations of the organization set forth by the authority of that organization. In the case of the Catholic Church, members, which include both priests and laypeople, need to abide by the rubrics of the Church, including using the translation of the Creed that the Vatican declared is to be used.
Finally, you said, "This mindless adherence to every single petty rule as handed down from on high on pain of excommunication and banishment to the fires of hell..." Firstly, within any large organization adherence to the rules, even seemingly unimportant ones, is crucial to the unity and survivial of that organization. In the the case of the Catholic Church, that is very true, and must work well, for the Church has survived as one united entity for almost 2,000 years. Also, pain of excommunication and banishment to the fires of hell are punishments that are not meted out by the Church, but brought upon oneself when one strays from the rubrics or teachings of the Church in a grave matter. Petty rules would not be considered grave matters, and would not bring excommunication or hell if one strayed from following them. However, one needs to follow them for the unity of the Church.
