Priest condemns nightclub 'mockery' of Crucifixion

An Irish Catholic priest has condemned as “blasphemous” a plan by a Wexford nightclub to hold a mock Crucifixion of Jesus at a party during the Easter weekend.

The Music Factory, which often has themed nights, is planning on holding the Crucifixion on the night of Easter Sunday. It will feature an actor playing Jesus on the Cross, who will also be whipped by dancers dressed as Roman soldiers.

The cross on which the Crucifixion will reportedly take place is to be set up in the middle of the nightclub dance floor and will form part of a show called the Resurrection Section.

Peter May, co-owner of the nightclub, was quoted by the Irish Times as saying, “It will be done in a fun, lighthearted way. A lot of young people forget what Easter is really about. This is a way of reminding them. A lot of young people don’t really know what Easter is all about. This is where they come. If it’s there in their faces, maybe next year, they will think about it.”

However, Wexford parish administrator Father Jim Fegan said, “It is clearly not a religious event. Therefore, one has to think that it’s a mockery of the Crucifixion and a blasphemy.” He added that it could meet a negative response from clubbers.

The Mayor of Wexford, councillor Ted Howlin, also condemned the move, “I wouldn’t approve of it at all. I think it’s terrible. It’s insulting to all Catholics.”
News
Bibles burnt as Hindu extremists launch brutal assault on Indian church
Bibles burnt as Hindu extremists launch brutal assault on Indian church

A Christian congregation in central India has been left traumatised and fearing for their lives after a brutal assault by Hindu extremists on 8 June, during which Bibles were burnt, worshippers beaten, and a pastor left unconscious.

Jess Phillips addresses role of faith communities in preventing abuse
Jess Phillips addresses role of faith communities in preventing abuse

The APPG is working to promote effective safeguarding of the vulnerable from abuse.

Appeal for Colombian priest missing for three weeks
Appeal for Colombian priest missing for three weeks

Father Carlos Saúl Jaimes Guerrero has been missing for three weeks.

Labour rejects calls to end parliamentary prayers
Labour rejects calls to end parliamentary prayers

Our Christian heritage is "sort of important" says Labour figure