Idolatry
IDOLATRY
DEFINITION The New Testament word describing the sin of worshipping other than the true God. It comes from two Greek words meaning image for worship and to render religious homage. From the latter word comes the word latria, the unique worship of God. Idolatry is a sin (Roman Catholics say a mortal sin).
BASIC R.C. BELIEF According to Roman Catholic definition, idolatry is worship of any but the true God. Although for centuries they neglected the commandment “Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image; thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, etc.,” by merging it with their first commandment. It is now admitted that this is a Divine command. They say this doesn’t mean their images which only remind them of God, and only receive limited devotion.
POST VATICAN II Many progressive Roman Catholics have removed images from their churches. In more conservative circles, homage paid to images in superstitious veneration disobeys God’s command.