"Hundreds of millions of Catholic, Orthodox, Coptic, and Protestant Christians, however, do not likely agree with you on this point."
Well, perhaps I misunderstand what is meant by venerate in the article. I have no problem with people wanting to pay their respects or respecting the sancity of a grave (as would be the case for any grave), but when you start fostering the idea that physical objects (including dead bodies) have some kind of inherent mystical power or that they are worthy of some form or minor worship then you are getting into the realm of idolitry.
BTW, a saint was the term used for any Christian originally. The Catholic concept of Sainthood is another tradition men created later on. Paul was a man, his calling was divine, not he himself.
"...but when you start fostering the idea that physical objects (including dead bodies) have some kind of inherent mystical power or that they are worthy of some form or minor worship then you are getting into the realm of idolitry."
Agreed. This is not Catholic belief.
"BTW, a saint was the term used for any Christian originally. The Catholic concept of Sainthood is another tradition men created later on."
In the Roman tradition of Catholic Christianity the word Sanctus means holy. It can be applied to the people of God, living or dead. Used with a persons name e.g. St. Paul, it implies a belief that that person is with God in heaven.
This traditional practice is held by Catholic, Orthodox, Coptic, and many Protestant Christians.
The Church does not teach that Saints are 'divine', simply that they served the Lord in a special way, and are worthy to be emulated. They are venerated, not worshipped, precisely because they lead others to Jesus. Some people like to see physical manifestations of those they admire. They may believe that they can pray in a more special way in those places. This is not idolatry. They are not praying TO the Saint as much as praying THROUGH the Saint; after all, that Saint is a lot closer to Jesus right now than we are.