Artefacts

Question 1

Why do they have artefacts?

Answer 1

To express faith through objects

Question 2

What is the sarcophagus with scenes of Jesus passion?

Answer 2

A sarcophagus with a variety of images which reinforce the belief that Jesus’ death and resurrection was a triumph over sin, and a sign of hope
.Based on passion and resurrection of Jesus

Question 3

Name 3 scenes in the sarcophagus with scenes of Jesus passion?

Answer 3

.Simon of Cyrene helping to carry Jesus’ cross to the crucifixion
.Jesus being given the crown of thorn, but on the sarcophagus it’s covered in jewels so shows his triumph over sin
.Jesus presented for trial before Pilate
.Pilate washing his hands symbolising he doesn’t take responsibility for Jesus’ death
.A cross with the chi-rho symbol instead of Jesus as the early Christians didn’t like to represent Jesus as dead or suffering

Question 4

What is the paschal candle?

Answer 4

A candle used during Easter week in the church; it symbolises the fact that Jesus’ resurrection was a triumph over death

Question 5

How is the paschal candle used at the Easter Vigil?

Answer 5

.Lit at the Easter vigil in memory of Jesus resurrection
.At the beginning the church is in darkness
.Then a fire is lit outside
.The candle is lit from that fire and taken into the church
.The candle is raised 3 times with the chant ‘the light of Christ’ and the people respond ‘thanks be to God’
.Symbolises the ‘light of Christ’ overcoming the ‘darkness of sin’
.Procession completed with an ancient hymn, ‘Exultet’ which proclaims Christ’s triumph over sin because his resurrection defeats death
.It’s then lit at every mass from Easter through till Pentecost

Question 6

Name and explain 3 of the symbols on the pashcal candle

Answer 6

.The Alpha and Omega are the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet, Christ is the first and the last
.The cross is a symbol of Christian faith because it’s due to the crucifixion of Jesus that resurrection is possible
.The five wounds, the candle has 5 studs to represent the 5 wounds Jesus suffered during his crucifixion
.The year is on the candle to show that the salvation of Jesus is real and true now just like it was in the past

Question 7

Pashcal candles at baptisms

Answer 7

.To remind people of resurrection
.Lit and placed near front
.Smaller baptismal candle is lit from its flame and given to the family to remind them that ‘the light of Christ’ has defeated the darkness of sin

Question 8

Pashcal candles at funerals?

Answer 8

used at funerals to signify hope of resurrection