BY REV. FR. ANTHONY ADETAYO

The recent opening ceremony of the Olympic Games in Paris that took place on Friday 26^th July 2024 has sparked widespread outrage after a controversial performance mocked the Eucharist, a sacred ritual practiced by millions of Christians worldwide. The opening event, intended to showcase unity and celebration, took a shocking turn, leading to deep disappointment and anger among religious communities.

As the ceremony unfolded, a particular segment included imagery and actions that were disrespectful towards the Eucharist featuring drag queens portraying the apostles and an overweight DJ as Jesus in what appeared to be a part of a fashion show, apparently mocking Leonardo da Vinci’s famous painting. This portrayal offended many attendees and viewers, leading to significant backlash on social media platforms. Prominent religious figures and organizations swiftly condemned the performance, stating that it undermined the values of respect and inclusivity that Olympic ideals should uphold.

In the wake of this controversy, Paris has experienced negative consequences, including calls for boycotts of the games. Tourism has taken a hit as some visitors express their unwillingness to support an event seen as disrespectful to their beliefs. Furthermore, discussions about the need for sensitivity towards different cultures and religions have emerged, urging future events to consider their impact on diverse audiences.

Adding its voice in a statement on Saturday, the French Bishop Conference says Christians around the world were “hurt” by these scenes.

In a video post on X, Bishop Robert Barron said the act was emblematic of a “deeply secularist postmodern society” that identifies Christianity as its enemy.

Italian Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, president of the Vatican’s Pontifical Academy for Life, wrote on X that “the derision and the mockery of the Last Supper” at the Paris Olympics, which he said was “rightly deplored” by the French bishops, “reveals a profound question.”

Rev. Fr. Dr. Stephen Ekerin; a Theologian from the Diocese of Ijebu-Ode who traveled to experience the game has this to say “Respect begets respect, and people’s religious beliefs must be respected and not derided on such global stage to a global audience. Saddened by this sore display in Paris, it still will not obliterate my beautiful memories of the National Eucharistic Congress held in Indianapolis, USA last weekend. In Paris, I saw confusion but in Indianapolis, I saw faith and conviction at work, Paris gave a sour taste to Europe and her Christian tradition and heritage, but Indianapolis gave a good taste to the future of the Church in America. In Paris, the organizers of the Opening Ceremony taught me nothing but in Indianapolis, Cardinal Tagle taught me to be a gift just as the Holy Eucharist is. I prefer Indianapolis to Paris”

This incident serves as a reminder of the fine line between artistic expression and respect for deeply held beliefs. As the games continue, the hope remains that organizers will apologize, address the concerns raised and foster a spirit of understanding and respect among all participants and spectators.