The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum Material Witness..icons and the Incarnation

Catholicsoldier,

Does the Roman church use artwork or relics as objects of veneration? Does it believe that special grace can be obtained by praying in proximity to them or certain shrines? If not, why doesn't the Pope order these practices to stop?

averagefellar,

I wonder if certain Calvinists object to any physical depiction of the saints or of Christ in particular. I read where a Calvinist pastor objected to Mel Gibson's Passion as being contrary to the commandments since Christ is God. If this is a Calvinist view, perhaps someone could elaborate or reference an appropriate article.