Image and Pilgrimage in Christian Culture 1: Religious Images

On page 10 of this book the author explains how sacred images help engage followers of the religion. The book describes images as being “hemmed in” the religion by sacred symbols. While members of the religion may not necessarily fully understand the messages of the religion, images can help personally relate to and engage with the various messages of the religion (10).
I feel passionately about the way in which images can be used to enrich the lives of followers of religion. As a believer in Jesus Christ I am familiar with art that depict Christian messages. During very difficult times in my life, I have been blessed by images depicting the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. I think images have been the most helpful to me during times when I am feeling anxious and doubtful. In complex and painful situations the beauty and simplicity of images breach my busy mind and remind me of truth. While some critique religious images as distractions and images which can easily be idolized, this has not been my experience. Instead, I see images as a tool that helps draw believers closer to their God.

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