Calling for fasting and forgiveness
Iraqi Archbishop condemns perceived transgender portrayal of ‘The Last Supper’ in Paris
MOSUL — Archbishop Benedictos Younan Hano, head of the Assyrian Catholic Church of Mosul, condemned the portrayal of “The Last Supper” with perceived transgender individuals during the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics. He has called for a day of fasting and divine forgiveness.
The Olympic ceremony, held along the Seine River on Friday, featured a scene resembling Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper,” depicting Jesus and his disciples at a banquet table.
Archbishop Hano expressed his dismay at the depiction. “The Olympics should reflect cultural awareness, especially in the Western world, which respects human rights,” he stated. “Instead, these games, meant to elevate humanity and reflect sophistication and culture, have descended to insulting religious symbols.”
He criticized the portrayal, saying, “Although the games are held in France, a country with Christian roots, they insult the image of the Last Supper of our Lord Jesus Christ by depicting it with transgender individuals, who are rejected by the world and not accepted by any rational person.”
The official Olympics X (formerly Twitter) account described the scene as “The interpretation of the Greek God Dionysus makes us aware of the absurdity of violence between human beings.”
The French Bishops’ Conference and U.S. bishops also expressed regret over the scenes, describing them as a “mockery of Christianity.”
Archbishop Hano warned of broader implications, stating that if such actions begin in France, they might soon occur in other countries. “This is the Western society in which we believe our children’s future lies. We must pay attention to where we are heading and preserve our faith, religious and historical values, and our land,” he added.
In response to the perceived insult, Archbishop Hano called for all eparchy members to dedicate Monday to fasting, seeking divine forgiveness for the offense and praying for the protection of their children, families, churches, and values. “If we lose them, we become worthless. Let us pray for the Western world to awaken to its mistakes and offenses before it is too late,” he concluded.
The Paris 2024 Olympics officially opened on Friday with a vibrant and captivating display along the Seine River, involving 6,800 athletes from 205 countries.
Christians enjoy Easter Sunday celebrations throughout Iraq
Erbil Christians Celebrate Nowruz in Kurdish Attire
Christians in Qaraqosh will not celebrate Christmas this year
Thousands gather in Qaraqosh for Palm Sunday celebrations
Live: Palm Sunday mass resonates with choir Hymns
