About Dr. Jay Forrest Expertise I can answer any question dealing with mysticism, such as questions concerning the awakening call, the purgative way, the illuminative way, the unitive way, spiritual experiences, spiritual direction, spiritual disciplines, prayer, ecstasy, the rule of life, internal monasticism, asceticism, mystical theology, devotional helps, chanting, meditation, contemplation, hesychasm, kabbalah, sufi, tao, zen, theosophy, and more.
Experience
Dr. Jay Forrest is an ardent student of mysticism in all the major religions of the world (Taoism, Buddhism, Christianity, Judaism, Islam). Jay was a Pentecostal/Charismatic minister for over 20 years, pastoring churches in Wisconsin, Missouri, Tennessee, Arizona, and New Mexico. He is the author over over 150 articles and poems and several books. He holds a doctorate in ministry from Trinity Institute.
Question Do you worship Mary like the catholics?
Do you pray to statues like the catholics?
Answer Hi James,
Although I respect Mary and believe she was a wonderful example for women, I do not worship her. I may ask her to intercede for me, but I do not petition her for the things only God can give.
I don't own any statues. I do have an icon of Christ, but I don't pray to it. Like the cross, an icon is a symbol that reminds us of heavenly things. A statues can serve the same purpose.
Although I go to an Old Catholic Church, I am personally ecumenical in orientation. So many churches think that they are the only right ones. I don't believe that there is any such church. All churches are a mixture of right and wrong. There is no perfect church.
I have been blessed by being involved in Protestant, Catholic, and Orthodox churches. Each have taught me something and helped me in my own journey of faith. I have learned to respect where each person is on their walk with God. Ultimately, it is not your relationship to an institution that matters, its your relationship to God.
Follow your own path, but respect other peoples path as well. It will not be like yours, but that is OK. God doesn't need us to direct other's journey, we should concentrate on our own.
