To answer this, try what scientists call an "operational definition" of worship.
For an Evangelical, it consists of speaking words, singing songs, etc.
For a Catholic in the Latin rite, it consists of adoring the Body, Blood, soul, and diivinity of Christ the Lord.
In other words, Evangelical worship is, by Catholic standards, mediocre... even though it may surely be heartfelt.
Given that mediocrity, when Catholics comport in the same way to Mary, it looks like doing something in regard to her that should be directed exclusively to God.
I think the ecumenical thing to do is to invite an Evangelical to fall down (together with me), prostrate in worship of God...
It won't feel right (I predict) because there is no Bodily Presence of the Lord. So he or she may decline. In fact I may not feel that it is appropriate, except before Jesus in the Eucharist.
For an Evangelical, it consists of speaking words, singing songs, etc.
For a Catholic in the Latin rite, it consists of adoring the Body, Blood, soul, and diivinity of Christ the Lord.
In other words, Evangelical worship is, by Catholic standards, mediocre... even though it may surely be heartfelt.
Given that mediocrity, when Catholics comport in the same way to Mary, it looks like doing something in regard to her that should be directed exclusively to God.
I think the ecumenical thing to do is to invite an Evangelical to fall down (together with me), prostrate in worship of God...
It won't feel right (I predict) because there is no Bodily Presence of the Lord. So he or she may decline. In fact I may not feel that it is appropriate, except before Jesus in the Eucharist.
Comments
I think not!