CathInfo.com

This quote comes from before the schism. The post-schism situation when it comes to the Orthodox is much more complex.

Pope Eugene IV, “Cantate Domino", Council of Florence

"It firmly believes, professes, and proclaims that those not living within the Catholic Church, not only pagans, but also Jews and heretics and schismatics cannot become participants in eternal life, but will depart “into everlasting fire which was prepared for the devil and his angels”, unless before the end of life the same have been added to the flock; and that the unity of the ecclesiastical body is so strong that only to those remaining in it are the sacraments of the Church of benefit for salvation, and do fastings, almsgiving, and other functions of piety and exercises of Christian service produce eternal reward, and that no one, whatever almsgiving he has practiced, even if he has shed blood for the name of Christ, can be saved, unless he has remained in the bosom and unity of the Catholic Church."

The ecuмenical councils must be understood in the way the Church understands them.

Here's my understanding.

I believe explicit faith in Christ is needed for salvation. However, I also think that God (to display his mercy and greater glory) may at the hour of death come to whomever he wishes and offer them this faith/salvation(either through an angel or Himself)


Hell does exist, and those who die having committed grave sins will spend time there. However, whether it is eternal or ultimately comes to an end is a serious question.

Hell does exist, and those who die having committed grave sins will spend time there. However, whether it is eternal or ultimately comes to an end is a serious question.