Which statement correctly distinguishes worship and veneration in Catholic practice regarding Mary and the saints?

• A. Worship (latreia) is due to God alone; veneration (dulia) is given to saints; Mary receives a special veneration (hyperdulia) but is not worshiped.
• B. Worship and veneration refer to the same practice.
• C. Veneration (dulia) is reserved for Jesus alone.
• D. Mary should be worshiped as a divine figure.

Answer: (D)

The main idea is understanding the difference between worship and veneration in Catholic practice. Worship, or latria, is adoration given to God alone. Veneration, or dulia, is reverence shown to the saints for their holiness and examples. Mary, because of her unique role as the Mother of Jesus, receives a special level of veneration called hyperdulia, which is higher than that given to other saints—but it is still not worship.

So the best statement reflects that worship is reserved for God, while saints are venerated, and Mary holds a uniquely high but non-worshipful place. The other ideas blur or overturn this distinction: worship and veneration are not the same practice; dulia is not reserved only for Jesus; and Mary is not to be worshiped as divine.