text: It might be prudent to remember that the church's representation as "bride of Christ" is just that--a metaphorical representation. Another prudent analogy is to recall that she (the church) is made up of all of God's people (not limited to Roman prelates mind you), thus giving "her" human-like qualities and the ability to teach and preach and spread the good news--which in essence encapsulates the great commission. The church as a "whole" is the Body of Christ.
  
  In this light, the Roman prelates who promulgate such church "rules" (as you describe in your post) do not necessarily represent the larger Body of Christ, which is an equally valid "part" of the same Body. Lest we be reduced to automatons, each follower of Christ must discern the "truth" of said rules for him or herself. It is this discernment process that will lead us to authentic faith, as well as "abundant life" in this life and the next. As you point out, the internal forum can help us in the discernment process.