Personally, I think catholicsoldier has been fairly hospitable and decent during his stay here. I think this is an interesting topic, since the church upheld this idea nearly universally until the reformation. I think that simply stating somebody is an idol worshiper without offering evidence is worse than posting a controversial topic. It's blind character assassination. Such an odd approach for those who usually scream "give me scripture", yet I saw none.

I, for one, think there is a middle ground here. We can easily go overboard and these items can cause us to stumble. However, I find that nearly every church I have attended uses some form of symbolism; cross, chalices, doves, etc. Historically, the use of basic symbols such as these has been allowed. So where do we draw the line? Should our churches have only wood floors and pews?

As a reformed Anglican type, our churches do use some symbolism However, we try to keep from using too much, and make sure we have specific reasons for the symbolisms we use. Every REC parish I have visited was very conservative, with generally only a cross. There is some stained glass in some parishes, but I think it best to remain conservative on this issue and limit the use of such things. It's just as easy for fancy pretty things to draw your attention away from God.


God bless,

william