Why Catholics Have Statues in Church When They Claim They Don't Worship Statues

23 October, 2025: Ever walked into a Catholic church and wondered, why all the images and statues? Some even say, isn't that idol worship? Let's clear the air and understand what these sacred images really mean to Catholics. 

In the book of Exodus, God said, You shall not make for yourself a graven image to worship it, but the key phrase here is 'to worship it'. Catholics do not worship statues. We use them as visual reminders of heavenly realities, just as photos remind you and I of our loved ones. When we see an image of Jesus, Mary, or a saint, our hearts are lifted to think of the person it represents, not the stone or wood itself. 

In the book of Numbers , God instructed Moses to make a bronze serpent. Whoever looked at it was healed. That shows that images can be used by God as symbols of faith, not objects of worship. The same applies to our churches and homes.

These sacred images help us focus, inspire devotion, and remind us of holy examples to follow. 

We honour Mary and the saints not as gods, but as servants of God who inspire us and intercede for us before His throne.  

For example, When we keep our parents' picture beside our bed, we are not worshipping it. It's just a sign of love and remembrance. 

That's exactly how Catholics see these images, as windows to heaven, not idols of earth.

So next time you step into a Catholic church, don't see idols. See reminders of faith. If this helped you understand better, share it so others can also know the truth about Catholic devotion.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

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