In homage to these early Christian martyrs, against whom death could not ultimately prevail (John 11:25), the Church erected St. Peter’s Basilica on the location of the former circus, and placed the obelisk as a reminder of the victory of both the Church in general and early Christians in particular over the pagan Roman Empire.
There is further evidence refuting the charge of pagan worship by the Catholic Church. In pagan times, a golden ball symbolizing worship of the sun topped the obelisk. However, the Church long ago replaced the golden ball with a cross, in which is contained a relic of the True Cross. Which, ironically, is a fulfillment of Jeremiah 43:13.
AGAIN...
However, the Church long ago replaced the golden ball with a cross, in which is contained a relic of the True Cross. Which, ironically, is a fulfillment of Jeremiah 43:13.
Here is more...
Pope Sixtus V conducted the ancient rite of exorcism against the obelisk. After that he casted sanctified water upon the pillar in the form of a cross and spoke, “In nomine Patris, et Filij, et Spiritus sancti. Amen” (“In the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. Amen”). The text of the exorcism is carved in Latin into the western and eastern sides of the base of the obelisk.
The obelisk has been conquered. It stands for all to see.
Did you ignore everything I wrote on purpose?
Read again. SLOWLY.
In homage to these early Christian martyrs, against whom death could not ultimately prevail (John 11:25), the Church erected St. Peter’s Basilica on the location of the former circus, and placed the obelisk as a reminder of the victory of both the Church in general and early Christians in particular over the pagan Roman Empire.
There is further evidence refuting the charge of pagan worship by the Catholic Church. In pagan times, a golden ball symbolizing worship of the sun topped the obelisk. However, the Church long ago replaced the golden ball with a cross, in which is contained a relic of the True Cross. Which, ironically, is a fulfillment of Jeremiah 43:13.
AGAIN...
Here is more...
Pope Sixtus V conducted the ancient rite of exorcism against the obelisk. After that he casted sanctified water upon the pillar in the form of a cross and spoke, “In nomine Patris, et Filij, et Spiritus sancti. Amen” (“In the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. Amen”). The text of the exorcism is carved in Latin into the western and eastern sides of the base of the obelisk.
The obelisk has been conquered. It stands for all to see.
It isn't coming down.