Latria and Dulia: Do we ever cross the line?

[Altansi]

Hello Catholic Answers:

I understand that Catholics make a distinction between “latria” (worship due to God alone) and “dulia” (veneration, or high respect paid to creatures such as angels and saints).

I fully understand this intellectual distinction. What I don’t understand is the practical distinction. Would it be possible for you to clearly demonstrate? For example, at what specific point would veneration (dulia) of the Virgin Mary or St. Francis cross the line into worship (latria) of these God-made creatures?

Thank you kindly.

Respectfully,

Altansi

 

[Devon_Caffran]

These links should give you the answers that you need as to why the Bible does not prohibit statues and images in spite of your sister in law. If you have any further questions or concerns that are not answered by this, please [contact Catholic Answers (http://www.catholic.com/home/contact.asp) directly.
Recommended Reading:

• The Intercession of the Saints (Fathers)*
• Praying to the Saints
• Saint Worship?
• What is an example of idolatry?
• ** Carving statues and Images**
• ** Where are statues and saints in the Bible?**
• ** Where does the New Testament allow for graven images?**
• ** Do Catholics Worship Statues?**
• ** Verse by Verse: Statuary**
• ** Statues of Limitations by Tim Staples**
• ** Second Ecumenical Council of Nicaea (787)**