1.4.3 Sacred Objects

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  • SACRED OBJECTS
    • SOWA
      • The Catechism teaches that 'all the signs in the liturgical celebrations are related to christ'.
    • DO SACRED OBJECTS HELP CHRISTIANS UNDERSTAND THEIR FAITH?
      • YES
        • The precious metal used for the Eucharist vessels help Catholics to understand the significance of transubstantiation and the mass.
        • The colours used for the priest's vestments help Catholics to gain an understanding of what they should be reflecting upon in their prayer lives.
        • Decorated sarcophagi, especially when decorated with scenes of resurrection like the raising of Lazarus, remind Catholics about the key messages and beliefs of their faith.
      • NO
        • Some Christians would say that using vessels and other scared objects do not help faith. Only a personal relationship with Jesus matters.
        • Some Christians do not have services where sacred objects would be used. For example, Quakers read the Bible and reflect on the word of God. Therefore, do not need sacred objects and consider them an unnecessary distraction.
        • Quakers do not have priests but rather run their meeting places through committees. No one person runs the services and so no vestments would be worn.
    • Sacred Vessels
      • The most holy objects as the hold the body and blood of Christ. Particularly important because of their involvement in the sacrament of the Eucharist and are  crucial in the sacred belief  in the sacred mystery of transubstantiation.
      • The CHALICE holds the wine
      • The PATEN holds the priests hosts.
      • The CIBORIUM holds the smaller hosts.
      • Some regard the HOLY WATER STOUP as a sacred vessel as it contains water blessed in the name of the Trinity.
    • Cloths and Vestments
      • Used as special covers for the altar and lectern and for the priest to wear. The colour scheme expresses christian beliefs.
      • WHITE or GOLD for special celebrations such as Christmas or Easter.
      • GREEN for ordinary time when there are no special occasions.
      • RED for events involving martyrs, for Good Friday and the Day of Pentecost to symbolise  the fire of the Holy Spirit.
      • PURPLE for penitence or sorrow, during advent or lent.
    • Hunger Clothes
      • Widely used during Lent to depict scenes from the life of Christ and were hung over the rood screen ( a decorated screen or iron work in front of the sanctuary ) in front of the altar.
      • Modern Hunger Cloths are produced by Charities such as CAFOD and relate the life of Christ to themes of justice and peace to teach Christians to follow the example of Jesus.
    • Sarcophagi
      • A container for dead bodies. Often made of stone and displayed in churches because they contain the bodies of saints.
      • They reflect Catholic beliefs about saints as well as the holiness which can be gained through prayer and contemplation next to a saints sarcophagus.
    • Uses outside of the church
      • Holy images, statues and crucifixes are used in private devotions and prayer, either in church or at home.
      • Holy water is used to bless oneself and can be used in the home.
      • Votive candles are lit to symbolise prayers being offered.
      • Priests wear special vestments outside of the Church for things such as funerals.

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