What is the Church's stance on tattoos?

[LizJacintaHelen]

A few of my children (25, 29 & 16 yrs. of ages) are in agreement that they ought to get tattoos. The oldest of these wants to get a tattoo of St. Michael on his back that would cover his entire back. He believes it is ok because he feels particularly close to St. Michael. I have always disagreed with that. In the past we have heard a few priests talk about tattoos but at this time I am having a hard time conveying why he/they shouldn’t. What is the Church’s stance on tattoos? I know there is a passage in the Bible that talks about mutilating your body etc.

 

[Devon_Caffran]

These links should help you understand the Church’s position on tattoos and body piercings. If you have any further questions or concerns that are not answered by these links, please [contact Catholic Answers (http://www.catholic.com/home/contact.asp) directly.
**Recommended Reading:
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• Has the church said anything official about body piercing and tattoos
• Is excessive tattooing a mortal sin?