[Mrs. Don-o]

I do appreciate that there are differing cultural distinctives: Catholics are big on frescoes, stained glass and statues; Orthodox are more on murals and iconostases and big, beautiful domes; my fave Non-Denom prolife allies go to a church whose main features are guitar amplifiers, an impressive percussion section and a big screen :o)

In the Catholic world, contemplatives like the Trappists tend to keep it pretty spare. I remember how touched I was by the extreme simplicity of a Missionaries of Charities chapel. They don't even have pews.

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[Mr Rogers]

I’m sure a big part is cultural. I also believe some concerns for idolatry are valid. Not in the USA, perhaps. But in the Philippines? I’ve got family from there. And I’ve heard that if I wanted my prayers answered, then as a military guy, surely I know to follow the chain of command...

Not saying that is good Catholic theology. But I can see where the Reformation wanted to make some changes.

For the church in question, I’d have told the “artist” his art is poor and needs to be removed if only for that reason. I’m not real good at subtlety. All the local leaders needed to say was that the large majority of the members wanted a different look. We’re trying to get enough money to change the carpet in our sanctuary. It isn’t worn out. Completely. But a number of members just want new carpet. Nothing wrong with that. No reason needs to be given other than, “We wanted...”