I have the prerequisite degrees, but not a hand has been laid on me. I do, however, teach theology.
Your quotes have nothing to do with creation ex nihilo or the forgiveness of sins.
One can play all sorts of word games with verbs that have different meanings or acts that allow for secondary//instrumental causes or diverse interpretation.
If Catholics really think that a statue is God, I want to see something showing that Catholics think that a statue can do what clearly only God can do, and no secondary cause can bring about.
I asked you to show me a Catholic claiming that a statue can create ex nihilo or forgive sins.
Mary is called omnipotent in one.
In the other it says it's impossible to be saved without her.
The Brown Scapular promises eternal life to those who wear it.
You don't by chance wear one of these do you? Brown, Green, Miraculous Medal?
One can play all sorts of word games with verbs that have different meanings or acts that allow for secondary//instrumental causes or diverse interpretation.
It's not a word game if you've studied the Greek.
If Catholics really think that a statue is God, I want to see something showing that Catholics think that a statue can do what clearly only God can do, and no secondary cause can bring about.
Never said anything about a statue being God...however, Rome has accorded to Mary divine attributes.