27 Catholic cardinals and bishops have signed an open letter asking for an apology from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for what they describe as a “blasphemous” portrayal of the Last Supper during the Paris 2024 Olympics opening ceremony.
The letter, reported by CNA, calls for the IOC to “repudiate” the depiction and apologize to Christians.
Signed by three cardinals and 24 bishops, including Cardinal Raymond Leo Burke, Cardinal Wilfrid Fox Napier, and Cardinal Berhaneyesus Demerew Souraphiel, the letter expresses shock at the scene.
The prelates describe the portrayal as a “grotesque and blasphemous depiction” that insults the faith of over 2 billion Christians.
The ceremony’s choreographer, Thomas Jolly, stated that the scene was inspired by a pagan feast and not intended to mock the Last Supper. Olympic spokesperson Anne Descamps expressed regret if any offense was taken, saying that the intent was to celebrate community tolerance. However, Bishop Robert Barron of Winona-Rochester criticized the response, calling it a “masterpiece of woke duplicity” and insisting that a genuine apology should acknowledge the mistake and express sincere regret.
The letter’s signatories have committed to a day of prayer and fasting in reparation for the perceived blasphemy.
Editorial credit: Hethers / Shutterstock.com
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