Redemption Flashcards
How were churches built before 1965 (second Vatican council)?
- Cruciform (shaped like a cross)
- Facing towards Jerusalem
- Altar against the East wall, the priest with his back to the congregation
How were churches built after 1965 (second Vatican council)?
- Focused on ensuring as many people as possible can see and join in with the sacrifice of the Mass
- Built around the altar (encouraging everybody to join in with all aspects of the Mass)
How are churches decorated to reflect Catholic beliefs?
Some are ornate with lots of colour, while others use simple lines and colours. Decorations are used to help raise the mind of the worshipper to heaven, where God is. Statues of saints, painting of biblical events and Stations of the Cross are often used.
What is done at the lectern and how does it relate to redemption?
Two readings per mass, one from the Old Testament and one from the New Testament. As Christians believe that Jesus is the Word of God made flesh, Christ is truly present when the word of God is proclaimed, so the lectern should be a prominent place in the church.
What is done at the altar and how does it relate to redemption?
It is a place of sacrifice, where the bread and wine is consecrated. During this, the offering is joined to Christ’s offering of himself to the Father through his death on Calvary.
What is the crucifix and how does it relate to redemption?
It’s a cross that bears an image of Jesus, usually him dying in pain. It inspires a spirit of gratitude and love for all that Christ has done for humanity.
What is the tabernacle and how does it relate to redemption?
The tabernacle is where the consecrated Bread is set aside for later use. It holds the Real Presence of Christ in the church, so it’s used by many Catholics to pray quietly.
Why do some churches use an altar rather than a table?
The Mass is a re-enactment of the Last Supper, where Jesus ate with his disciples around a table. Therefore, some churches prefer to have a table. However, during the Mass, the events on Calvary and the Last Supper are remembered, so the central feature of the church is both a table and an altar.
Why do some churches favour a crucifix over a cross or risen Christ?
A crucifix is a reminder of how Jesus suffered out of love for humanity, which helps believers to be grateful for the love of God.
Why do some churches favour a cross over a crucifix or risen Christ?
It doesn’t have a figure representing Jesus (no suggestion of worshipping an idol), and it is a symbol of victory over death and sin.
Why do some churches favour a risen Christ over a crucifix or cross?
It focuses on the resurrection, which gives meaning to the whole process of the incarnation. It also stresses the fact that what Catholics receive in Communion is the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of the Risen Christ.
What events showed the significance of Jesus’ death?
- The sky turned black in the middle of the day and there was an earthquake
- The Veil in the Temple tore (barrier between heaven and earth removed)
- Water and blood flowed from his side (importance of waters of baptism and blood of Eucharist) (John 19:34-37)
How is salvation demonstrated in the past?
It came through the death and resurrection of Jesus. It freed sinners from the power of sin and death, and the gates of heaven were opened by Jesus’ sacrifice.
How is salvation demonstrated in the present?
While Jesus won over sin and death, believers must be guided by the Holy Spirit every day. This means we should resist temptation of sin, and we can also accept forgiveness for our sins.
How is salvation demonstrated in the future?
The final victory of God’s grace will come at the end of time, but people still need to experience the struggle against sin and death otherwise heaven would have no meaning.
