Aesthetically pleasing
One of the many great aspects of Roman Catholicism is the beauty and meaning of the Church’s liturgies. I’ve been to Protestant worship services. I’ve been to the “Overflow”-type praise singalongs. After being exposed to these varieties of worship, I’ve gained a greater appreciation for Catholic liturgy.
The liturgies in the Church, especially the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, when celebrated solemnly and beautifully (such as the liturgies at Clear Creek), appeal to the senses so as to give a sense of the sacred and compel those in attendance to turn their eyes to God in praise.
The beautiful melodies and tones of polyphony and Gregorian chant are beautiful to hear, and rich in theology and meaning. The mood of the chant follows the liturgical calendar to emphasize certain days and periods.
The rich smell of incense pervades the air as light coming from the stained glass windows penetrates the sanctuary, piercing through the smoke of the incense, creating a sensical wonderland.
The sight of the beautiful altar and statuaries, side chapels and domes, the multiple servers and the priest, all celebrating the joyful mystery of the Mass. Nay, Protestant services cannot compare. For all this external beauty leads the faithful God, in praise and in awe.
Would that we could all grow in appreciation and understanding of the beautiful liturgies of the Roman Catholic Church.
~Sancte Gregori, ora pro nobis~