This chapter is all about sacred art and furnishings

Yes, beautiful art and furnishings help turn our minds and hearts to God.
Yes, in the Old Testament, Moses went to a lot of trouble in making things for the Sacred Tent

But notice how Jesus never talked about building huge churches,
having the finest decorations, vestments etc.
The only time he talked about "vestments" was to point out
the leaders' love for flowing vestments and first places at banquets etc

Jesus was concerned about his followers being the temple of the Holy Spirit,
rather than big brick temples

This is not to say that places of worship are not important.
But they are a means, not an end...

One article (124) of this chapter has the appropriate words:

"Bishops by the encouragement and favor they show to art which is truly sacred,
should strive after noble beauty rather than mere sumptuous display.
This principle is to apply also in the matter of sacred vestments and ornaments"

How does this sit with bishops and cardinals who are now going back to wearing the Cappa ?

Simplicity should be the mark of today's Church,
especially in a world of so much poverty

No. 124 also repeats the main theme of the whole document:

"And when churches are to be built,
let great care be taken that they be suitable for the celebration of liturgical services
and for the active participation of the faithful."

Jesus, please help your Church not to get carried away with big buildings and fancy dress

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Comments welcome here