Discover the Signs, Symbols, and Saints in Catholic Churches

Have you ever walked into a Catholic church and wondered what certain symbols or depictions might represent? Even those well-versed in the Catholic faith may be unsure about the iconography of certain saints or wonder why a given image is used. Entering Heaven on Earth: The Signs, Symbols, and Saints of Catholic Churches by Fr. Lawrence Lew, OP, helps educate anyone interested in learning more about the decoration of churches from the most modest chapels to grand basilicas. It is filled with information and stunning photographs to help readers appreciate the beauty and meaning of Catholic churches.

Church Architecture

Fr. Lew begins by discussing the physical architecture of the church building. “The church building, and all the artifacts and symbols within it, are meant to point to the abiding presence of Emmanuel, God-with-us” (13). Domes, bell towers, transepts, doors, baptismal fonts, confessionals, altars, tabernacles, and more are discussed in detail.

Symbols and Decorative Emblems

“Church buildings, with all their symbolic art, must be understood in relation to the liturgy, because their symbolic sense is derived from it” (78). Fr. Lew explains what various fruits, flowers, and animals represent. He also discusses non-living symbols, such as anchors, crosses, shells, ships, and more.

Depictions of the Bible

Much of the art in churches, including stained-glass windows, often depicts scenes from Scripture. This was often referred to as the “Bible of the Poor” because even those who were illiterate could learn the Bible stories from these images. Fr. Lew discusses how God, angels, and various scenes are often portrayed.  

The Communion of Saints

The Blessed Mother, apostles, evangelists, and various other saints are often represented in churches, both in images and in statues. “It is fitting and good to have images of the saints in our churches, and also depictions of scenes from their lives, to inspire us by their virtue and their good works” (17). Certain saints are often represented by particular clothing, objects, plants, and images. Fr. Lew offers helpful insights into how to determine what saint is depicted. Learning who these saints are can inspire viewers to learn more about their lives and Catholic witness.

A Valuable Educational Resource

Entering Heaven on Earth: The Signs, Symbols, and Saints of Catholic Churches is a wonderful resource to have to appreciate the design of your local churches as well as unfamiliar ones you may visit while traveling. It could be used as a component of a high school religious education class as part of a homeschool program or within a church setting. It is a great addition to any Catholic home, school, or parish library.

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Author: Patrice Fagnant-MacArthur

Patrice Fagnant-MacArthur, editor of "Today's Catholic Homeschooling", is the mother of two biological sons and one adopted daughter. She is in her seventeenth year of homeschooling. She has a B.A. in History and Fine Art and a Master's Degree in Applied Theology. She is the author of "The Crash Course Guide to Catholic Homeschooling" and "The Fruits of the Mysteries of the Rosary". She blogs at spiritualwomanthoughts.blogspot.com