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Statues
Statues
Catholics use different symbolic objects to help them pray. A cross or crucifix represents the sacrifice of Christ on the cross and His resurrection. Some people light candles to create a reverent atmosphere to feel the presence of God whist others use rosary beads as they meditate on the life of Jesus. Similarly, statues are also used while praying.
Outside of church buildings, the prayer rooms of every Catholic family often have statues of Mary and some of the saints. It should be noted that this is not a kind of "worship" of Mary or the saints but a petitionary prayer requesting them to pray to God on our behalf. This process is known as "intercession". Catholics also believe that these statues can help to focus a person's mind on an aspect of prayer or worship as these statues act as a visual aid for the worshipper. For example, a representation of Christ on the cross can help us remember the sacrifice and passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ.
Why Do Catholics Pray Using Statues?
“Catholics are idolaters - they worship statues." This claim is made by those ignorant of the Catholic faith. Because Catholics have statues in their churches, the accusation is made that they are violating God’s commandment: “You shall not make for yourself a graven image or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: you shall not bow down to them or serve them”. The fact is that Catholics don't actually worship idols or statues - they often use a statue as a symbolic object that helps them to pray in a similar way to a crucifix, rosary beads, or a bible, etc.
Catholics worship with their whole person and with all of the senses. A statue, or any other piece of religious art, is intended to draw the soul deeper into prayer by helping the senses to recall the mystery that it represents.
Our statues of Jesus, Mary, and the saints are ways to honor and preserve memories of holiness through visual means in our everyday life. Find Catholic statues online from https://stpauls.org.uk/sacramentals/statues.html . During the current pandemic, we will ensure all safety measures are taken in the packing and delivery of our products.