Why do Catholics need symbols?

Answer 1

I just absolutely love this question, it is so often asked by many non-Catholics of Catholics because Catholics go overboard with symbols.

The answer I always give is this. Catholics recognize that mankind is not perfect in being in that we are predisposed to commit sins. Because of our original sin, all humans must suffer and die and also have a darkened intellect (never acting on perfect knowledge) and a weakened will.

The last one there, weakened will, is the reasons for the symbols. You see, as humans we may know that we have to resist sin, we often times just can not put our will to it though. Symbols help the Catholic by continually reminding them of the supernatural graces God gives us all to resist sin and all temptation towards sin. The symbols, such as statues, stained glass windows, paintings, rosary beads, crucifixes, etc. are seen everywhere around a Catholic church. Practicing Catholics often times put them in their homes and workplaces, or anywhere they may feel more tempted to sin (such as a car, because we know how crazy some people drive!)

Its important to underline that Catholics don't necessarily need all these symbols, but they certainly help a whole lot. Furthermore, Catholics don't worship symbols by kneeling or praying in front of them. When you see a Catholic do this, they are simply venerating (honoring) the symbol in what it represents.