25th Sunday after Pentecost 2013 – Part 2
We should pray to the saints as if they are real people, not simply images.  The dedication of the Church of Our Savior in Rome, which is the “mother and head” of all churches throughout the world, has been the residence of the popes.  A mosaic in this Church commemorates the apparition of Our Lord which took place during the consecration ceremony.  All other churches are considered Catholic because they are an extension of this Church in Rome.  The cruciform structure of every church reflects the God-centered purpose of our religion, while the altar facing the East demonstrates that the church is not for the people first, but for the worship of God.  A priest should enter the church trembling, knowing that he enters the courts of Heaven.  Traditionally, the doors to the church represented the Trinity, with a carving over the main door depicting Christ in judgment.  It is only after passing through His judgment that we will enter our heavenly abode.
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