In a statement issued Saturday, more than a week after the start of the Paris Olympics, the Vatican expressed “sadness over certain scenes” from the opening ceremony. According to the Holy See, many Christians and followers of other religions were offended. However, it did not clearly indicate which “certain scenes” it refers to, although much points to the element that has been the most talked about in recent days.
In a statement released to journalists on Saturday evening, it was stressed that “the Holy See was saddened by certain scenes during the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games in Paris and can only join the voices that have been raised in recent days to deplore the offence committed against many Christians and followers of other religions.”
“At a prestigious event where the whole world unites around common values, there should be no allusions that ridicule the religious beliefs of many people,” he said. Vatican.
“Freedom of expression, which is of course not questioned, finds its limit in respect for others,” it was noted.
The statement does not clearly explain which “certain scenes” it refers to.
After the inauguration ceremony on July 26, the controversy and numerous protests were mainly focused on a scene that was considered an offensive reference to Leonardo da Vinci's “The Last Supper”. The author of the Paris spectacle later explained that this painting was not his inspiration.
Alleged “Last Supper” at the opening of the gamesEurosport
Opening of the Olympic Games in Paris Reuters
Main image source: PAP/EPA/MARTIN DIVISEK