Jesus had some notions that just had to go, like telling his apostles to humbly sit at the places of least honor.  Fortunately, Holy Mother Church has forgone that business and now the Great Men who walk in the footsteps of the apostles wear gold rings, have coats of arms, live in mansions and are feted and lauded with the honor that leaders are due.  Tradition is not a bad thing--it is the best thing!  Tradition, in and of itself should be venerated,  just as the bits and pieces of dead saint's bodies should be venerated.  By placing tradition above all else, just as by praying to the saints, we show the world that we are the One True Church.