Sacred Images
Pretty as a Picture
Pictures. We have them in our homes and offices, framed on tabletops and walls. We store them in albums and books. We used to carry them in our wallets, but now we carry them in our phones. Images of events, vacations, memories, loved ones, and even heroes. People used to send for an autographed picture of their favorite movie star or sports legend. These images communicate. They tell the story of people. They help us share those stories with others. Photos of our loved ones honor their memory, what they did, and who they were. We also have images of sacred events, people, and mysteries of the Faith.
A FALSE NEGATIVE
Catholics have been criticized because of our sacred images and falsely accused of idolatry, which could not be further from the truth. Veneration of an image is understood to be a way of honoring the person it represents. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that the honor rendered to an image passes to its prototype, and whoever venerates an image venerates the person portrayed in it.
A TRUE POSITIVE
Images in the Catholic Church, including statues and icons, serve as visual aids for prayer and devotion, reminding the faithful of Jesus, Mary, and the saints. Signs and symbols remind us of things. Just like the red, yellow, and green of a traffic light communicate something and call us to a certain action, so do the sacred images that adorn the sacred space where we celebrate the Sacred Liturgy.
A PICTURE’S WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS
Sacred images also play a role in catechesis. Children start with picture books before they move on to reading stories. We learn with pictures. They are impactful to us. We know what certain symbols are, regardless of our language. In a time when many people were not literate, the stained glass windows, paintings, and statues in a church were the way people learned the faith and salvation history.
Oh, the Things You will See
Here are some key sacred images you may find in Catholic Churches. The Crucifix: The cross with the body of Christ on it is a central and required symbol at the altar, representing the sacrifice of Jesus. Statues and Pictures of Jesus, Mary, and the Saints: These figures serve as focal points for devotion and prayer. Stations of the Cross: Fourteen images that follow the Lord’s steps to Calvary. Other Symbols: The IHS is the abbreviation of the name Jesus in Greek, the Chi Rho (a superimposed X and P) is the first two letters of Christ in Greek, the alpha and omega (the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet) represent God as the beginning and end of all things, the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Immaculate Heart of Mary, a dove (the Holy Spirit), and the Paschal Lamb all have symbolic meanings.
NOW IS THE TIME
Good sacred art is characterized by its ability to enhance and support the Sacred Liturgy, drawing us into a deeper understanding and appreciation of the sacred mysteries. The Church teaches that it should be both beautiful and meaningful, reflecting both the timeless truths of the faith and the unique context of the community it serves. As part of our Refurbishment and Renewal Project next summer (2026) we will introduce some new statues into our sacred space, including a large crucifix above the tabernacle and altar. All of our current statuary will be reverently used in different places in the church and campus.
UP NEXT
Next week, we will take a look at the Baptismal Font.