2 days ago #mary #nativity #Reuters
A nativity scene featuring ‘two mothers’ of the Baby Jesus instead of the conventional Mary and Joseph figurines went on display in a church in southern Italy, sparking fury among arch-conservative Catholics and politicians.
Same-Sex Nativity Scene Sparks Controversy in Italy
TWO MARY'S IS HERESY NOT BLASPHEMY
By: Quadri Adejumo
Published: December 24, 2023
A nativity scene at the Church of Saints Peter and Paul in Capocastello di Mercogliano, Italy, featuring two mothers of baby Jesus, has ignited a storm of controversy among conservative Catholics and politicians. Critics have labelled the non-traditional portrayal, which deviates from the usual depiction of Mary and Joseph with Jesus, as ‘dangerous, shameful, and blasphemous’. The scene’s creator, Father Vitaliano Della Sala, defended it as a reflection of the diversity in modern families, including children from gay couples, single parents, and young mothers.
Aligning with Pope Francis’s View
In what is seen as a stance aligning with Pope Francis’s recent ruling allowing priests to bless same-sex unions, Father Della Sala’s depiction has attracted both support and criticism. However, the outcry from conservative quarters has led to a petition demanding intervention from the bishop of Avellino, which has already garnered over 21,000 signatures.
Deepening the Cultural Divide
The controversy over the same-sex nativity scene is part of a broader cultural and legislative debate in Italy. The country is currently grappling with issues such as surrogacy, same-sex parenting, and the preservation of Catholic-themed activities in schools. These debates reflect the growing tension between the traditionalist views and the evolving societal acceptance of secularism and multiculturalism in Italy.
A Flashpoint for Controversy
The unorthodox nativity scene has become a flashpoint for opponents and supporters of same-sex parenting and surrogacy. For some, it contradicts the Church’s teachings and legitimises practices that they believe are contrary to the Catholic faith. For others, it is a symbol of the Church’s recognition of the diversity of today’s families and a sign of progress within the religious institution. As the backlash continues, the controversy underscores the country’s culture wars and the Church’s role in these contentious debates.
By: Quadri Adejumo
Published: December 24, 2023
A nativity scene at the Church of Saints Peter and Paul in Capocastello di Mercogliano, Italy, featuring two mothers of baby Jesus, has ignited a storm of controversy among conservative Catholics and politicians. Critics have labelled the non-traditional portrayal, which deviates from the usual depiction of Mary and Joseph with Jesus, as ‘dangerous, shameful, and blasphemous’. The scene’s creator, Father Vitaliano Della Sala, defended it as a reflection of the diversity in modern families, including children from gay couples, single parents, and young mothers.
Aligning with Pope Francis’s View
In what is seen as a stance aligning with Pope Francis’s recent ruling allowing priests to bless same-sex unions, Father Della Sala’s depiction has attracted both support and criticism. However, the outcry from conservative quarters has led to a petition demanding intervention from the bishop of Avellino, which has already garnered over 21,000 signatures.
Deepening the Cultural Divide
The controversy over the same-sex nativity scene is part of a broader cultural and legislative debate in Italy. The country is currently grappling with issues such as surrogacy, same-sex parenting, and the preservation of Catholic-themed activities in schools. These debates reflect the growing tension between the traditionalist views and the evolving societal acceptance of secularism and multiculturalism in Italy.
A Flashpoint for Controversy
The unorthodox nativity scene has become a flashpoint for opponents and supporters of same-sex parenting and surrogacy. For some, it contradicts the Church’s teachings and legitimises practices that they believe are contrary to the Catholic faith. For others, it is a symbol of the Church’s recognition of the diversity of today’s families and a sign of progress within the religious institution. As the backlash continues, the controversy underscores the country’s culture wars and the Church’s role in these contentious debates.
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