A theological – exegetical study of Deut 4:15-20 understanding the use of sacred images and art in the church to curb idol worship : case study of Kitabi Parish-Mbarara Archdiocese

Abstract

This was a theological – exegetical study of Deut 4:15-20 aimed at understanding the use of Sacred Images and Art in the church to curb idol worship carried out in Kitabi Parish-Mbarara Archdiocese. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study investigated the scriptural foundations for the use of Sacred Images and Art in the Catholic Church, and it clarified the importance of Sacred Images and Art in the Catholic Church, investigated the causes of the evil of idol worship, and suggested possible solutions to the evil of idol worship. It was found out that the use of Sacred Images and Art in the Catholic Church is backed by the Sacred Text; it is not against God’s commandment but rather leads to better of worship of God. Consequently, Sacred Images and Art are very important for the Catholic Church for her to ably perform her roles. The study also reported that the evil of Idol worship stems from personal choices such as laziness, poverty, ignorance of scripture. Non-personal choices may include increased secularism and poor catechesis on Adoration and devotion. This is because Sacred Images and Art as used in the Rites of Catholic worship and Liturgy are not idols and do not in any way relate to Idol Worship. The study recommended that the Catholic Church should consider increasing the number of pastors through formation and empowering the existing ones, adequate catechesis. Additionally, making the Scriptures and the Catechism of the Catholic Church readily available would solve the evil of Idol worship.