Unit 4: Forms Of Expression Flashcards
The role of church buildings
- Place of worship.
- In particular they are a place for Catholics where the Mass will take place.
- They are a place of personal prayer.
- They are a place where the community of believers are joined together as the Body of Christ.
The design of church buildings and what they symbolize.
- They will face east representing the resurrection.
- They will usually be designed either in a cruciform shape (a cross) the symbol of Christianity, or, round representing community and eternity, or octagonal meaning the light that is brought into the world.
- They will have high ceilings, symbolizing the greatness and otherness of God.
- There will be stained glass windows to let in light and to show images from the Bible.
Name the internal features of a church
- Lectern
- Altar
- Crucifix
- Tabernacle
- The baptismal font
What is the role of a lectern?
- “this is a stand where the readings are processed” CCC
- It is used during the Liturgy of the Word.
- Used to communicate the message of salvation.
What is the role of an altar?
- The place where the Liturgy of the Eucharist is to take place during the Mass.
- “It is a representation of the Last Supper, a table of sacrifice” CCC
- The place where the sacrifice of Jesus takes place, where we can achieve our salvation.
What is the role of a crucifix?
- Reminder of the sacrifice of Christ.
- Reminder of the love of Christ.
- Shows the HUMAN suffering of Jesus.
What is the role of a tabernacle?
- “This is a box where the Eucharist is kept” CCC
- It is where Christ is TRULY present, the consecrated host.
- The tabernacle lamp is kept on, reminding one of Christ’s presence.
What is the role of a baptismal font?
- It is a reminder of the first sacrament of initiation.
- Situated at the front of the Church as a symbol that we enter the Church through Baptism.
Name three sacred objects
- Sacred vessels
- Sarcophagi
- Hunger cloths
Name the three sacred vessels
- Chalice
- Paten
- Ciborium
Why are sacred objects important?
They are used during the Mass and can be used to air prayer, and be visual reminders of faith and belief.
The Church teaches that sacred objects are useful and serve an important part of the Mass.
What is the chalice?
Used to hold the blood of Christ, during the celebration of the Eucharist.
What is the paten?
Where the larger host is kept during the Mass used by the priest.
What is the ciborium?
Where the rest of the hosts are kept during communion and then stored in the tabernacle.
What is the sarcophagi?
- Box like container for corpses.
- Still used today, and many popes are buried in them.
- They are used as a reminder of the life of the deceased, often saints as well so can be used to aid prayer.
What are hunger cloths?
- Used traditionally over the altar to depict stories from the Bible.
- Used today in developing countries signifying God’s presence.
What is the use of sacred art?
- Artwork is used within BOTH the home and within churches.
- It is a good way of evangelization since it can be shown publicly.
- Furthermore it can engage people in discussing how the artwork is done.
- Used privately Catholics can use it as a form of devotion and prayer.
Name three types of sacred art
- Paintings
- Icons
- Frescoes