Speratus,
Many Catholic traditions seem strange to a Protestant mindset. But I can say this for certain. In all my years as a Catholic I have never worshipped a statue or icon of any kind, nor have I witnessed anyone doing so.
It seems strange to see devout Catholics kneeling before a Marian shrine, but we are lifting our hearts to the Lord. We are well instructed to not ascribe divine attributes or personality to any object, but to use it as a primer to direct our attention heavenward.
We believe that Mary is in heaven with her Son Jesus and intercedes for us to the ultimate Intercessor, Jesus, who is our Advocate before the Father. Intercession happens all the time, when you pray for another believer, you are engaged in the ministry of intercession. We believe that the Saints who are in heaven can similarly intercede for us by reasons I will address on a separate thread.
But we aren't confused on the issue to think that the intercession of the saints could take place of the final intercession of Christ. I am personally comforted to know that Mary and the saints pray for me in the way that no one else can, tirelessly, having exchanged corruptable and mortal bodies for eternal bodies.
And so as we are intructed, we "seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God." and "not on things on the earth."(Col 3:1,2) It is not for Protestants to judge our hearts as we worship, though many jump at the chance to, that is God's job.
I am proud to worship in the manner Christians have worshipped for centuries. Catholic worship is rooted in ancient Christian practice, and we can trace these traditions all the way back the the New Testament Church.
Finally in answer to your questions, we do recieve special grace according to our proximity to these places in that the icons and adornments enhance our heavenly meditation. As far as the Pope is concerned, you likely misunderstand the relationship of the Pope to the Church, and I will someday explain papal authority. Suffice to say here that he doesn't unilaterally rule the Church with an iron fist.
I hope this helps you understand.
catholicsoldier <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/takethat.gif" alt="" />
