Forms of Expression - CC

• Church buildings

  • Face east - Sun rises in the east as Jesus rose on the day of the resurrection
  • Cruciform Structure - shaped in the form of the cross from a bird's eye view
  • High ceilings - gives sense of heaven and the 'size' of God: feeling small in His presence
  • Spire - draws the eyes up toward heaven: connects heaven and earth
• How are churches used

  • Worship
  • Celebrating Sacraments
  • Private Prayer & Contemplation
  • Popular Piety
• Church features

  • Lectern - book stand which readings are shared: liturgy of the word is important part of mass as redemption is achieved through responding to Word of God
  • Altar - table that is the focal point of every church: represents table of the Last supper. Salvation is received because of Jesus sacrifice at the Last Supper
  • Tabernacle - box where consecrated host is kept (Body of Christ): 'dwelling place of Jesus'
• Sacred objects

  • Chalice - Blood of Christ
  • Ciborium - Body of Christ
  • Sarcophagus - box-like container usually for the bodies of dead Church leaders as reminders of mortality & need for prayer
  • Relics - items associated with dead saints used to inspire prayer and contemplation
  • Rosary beads - to aid in prayer 'like holding he hand of Mary'
  • Candles - give focus during contemplation
• Purpose of art in Catholic churches

  • To learn and relate to biblical stories or events
  • Used as a focus for prayer, meditation and contemplation
  • Visual expressions of faith portraying the teachings of the Church
  • Icons of Mary, Jesus, Saints and Angels remind Catholics of the human aspect and to inspire all through their lives as real people
• Examples of art

  • The Sistine Chapel (Michelangelo)
  • The Return of the Prodigal Son (Rembrandt)
• Role of sculptures and statues

  • Remind of individual stories for people of faith
  • Usually bear symbols relevant to that person e.g. Sacred Heart of Jesus - pierced heart
  • They are NOT WORSHIPPED by Catholics but used to inspire faith
  • Kneel before them
  • Touch or Kiss them
  • Light a candle before them
  • Pray before them
  • Meditate or contemplate
• Symbols & imagery

  • Used to express deeper meaning of their faith
  • Crucifix - suffering, sacrifice, hope of Jesus death and resurrection
  • The Fish - ICHTUS meaning fish but an acronym for Jesus Christ God Son Saviour
  • The Alpha & Omega - beginning and end: Jesus says "I am the Alpha and omega" - Revelations
• Drama used to express faith

  • Used to bring Bible stories to life
  • Mystery plays help people to relate bible stories to their everyday lives
  • Passion Plays reveal the human nature and suffering of Jesus in real life scenarios to engage people in the real meaning of His death & resurrection
  • Drama engages all people on an emotional level
  • The CCC describes the relationship between God and His people as 'covenant drama' that 'engages the heart'
  • Drama unites all people as everyone can relate to the power of plays
• Music used to express faith

  • Allow congregation to join in worship
  • Help to understand the faith of the Church through song
  • Used to invigorate the Masses and other forms of popular piety
  • Plainchant: Singing without music - popular in monasteries with Monks and Nuns
  • Hymns: Religious songs for praise, adoration and as form of prayer. Usually linked to Church teachings and Bible stories
  • Worship Songs: More modern forms of music. Used in charismatic Churches and with young people to engage and inspire worship
• CCC: 'The Church building is an important symbol of God'
• CCC 1184: 'The dignity of the Word of God requires the church to have a suitable place for announcing his message'
• CCC: 'They are to be exhibited (displayed) in the holy churches of God'
• CCC: 'Evokes and glorifies, in faith and adoration, the transcendent mystery of God'
• CCC 2567: 'The CCC describes the relationship between God and His people as 'covenant drama' that 'engages the heart''
• CCC 2641: 'Music engages the heart in worship "make melody to the Lord with all your heart"'
• CCC 1156: 'Music increases the value of prayer: "He who sings once, prays twice"'