Catholics Express Outrage as Rosary Beads Become Fashion Statement

Australian Catholics are outraged after discovering rosary beads, symbols of devotion used in prayer, are being flaunted as a fashion statement, The (Sydney) Sunday Telegraph reported.

The strings of beads with a cross -- worn by celebrities Madonna, David Beckham and Britney Spears -- are now as likely to be found in cheap jewelry stores as they are in a church.

Australian Fashion franchise Diva is selling three styles of rosary necklaces with silver cross pendants for AU$14.99 (US$13.15) each.

Catholic Women's League Australia president Madge Fahy said it was inappropriate for teenagers to wear rosary beads as jewelry.

"It is totally disrespectful to the religious beliefs of Catholics," Fahy said.

"They don't have the right to abuse our religious objects. Rosary beads are used solely for prayer.”

Fahy said non-religious followers of fashion should have more regard for a symbol of the Catholic Church.

"Don't wear them unless you're prepared to use them for what they're made for. They're not a fashion item."

A spokeswoman for the Catholic archdiocese of Sydney said wearing rosary beads trivialized a religious tradition. But she said the Church hoped those who had adopted rosary beads as a fashion item may have a spiritual awakening.