Religious Symbolism In Religion

Where words fail, rituals and symbols speak volumes. It seems the secular and corporate world understands the power of rituals and symbols better than the Church. Companies rely to a large degree on logos, for instance, to sell their particular brand. Nations too use symbols like currency to symbolize national wealth. Democratically elected heads of state go through the ritual of swearing an oath before officially assuming office. Indeed, throughout the world, people who share a common history or heritage seal their intentions with symbols and shared ritual experiences.
In the Church, the rituals and symbols God gives point toward the mysteries of faith in ways everyone, including children, can understand, God in his wisdom has graciously gifted his Church with a set of rituals and symbols that deeply communicate God 's presence to all people in all circumstances. The symbols of right worship are both cultural (itinerant) and sacred (permanent). These strengthen the Church 's moral fiber and character. Wrong symbolism, in contrast, produces itinerant practices that mature into false belief systems.
Cultural symbols are temporal, and hence disposable, sacred symbols, which are unchangeable, …show more content…
Father Stan graciously agreed so Janice and I began searching for a container large enough to immerse a baby in without spilling any water over. After finding a large enough plastic container, we filled it with warm water and then placed it on a table at the front of the church. We then covered our improvised font with a white cloth. One parishioner commented how much it looked like a casket. Indeed! Nonetheless, we never guessed how powerfully the event would actually be until Father Sam submersed Abby then "raised her to new life". He then wrapped her in a big white towel proclaiming her to be God 's new creation. Many in attendance wept