Catholics livid over celebs using rosary beads as fashion accessories

The Catholic community is angry over celebrities using their sacred rosary beads as fashion accessories.

Rosary beads, used by Catholics during prayers, are being flaunted as a fashion statement. Fashion franchise Diva is selling three styles of a rosary necklace with a silver cross pendant for $14.99 each. The beads are a rage among teenagers.

But Madge Fahy, national president for the Catholic Women's League Australia said that it was inappropriate for people to wear them as jewellery.

"It is totally disrespectful to the religious beliefs of Catholics," The Courier Mail quoted Fahy as saying.

"I believe it's an abuse of our religious object. Rosary beads are solely used for prayer," she said.

She also said that non-religious fashion followers should have more respect for a sacred symbol of the Catholic Church.

"Don't wear them unless you're prepared to use them for what they are made for. They are not a fashion item, they are for prayer and for rosary - don't wear them," Fahy said further.

Sportsgirl and Dolce and Gabbana are selling rosary beads for $19.95.