American Catholic Bishop Robert Barron condemned the 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony for featuring a scene that he perceived as a “gross mockery of the Catholic Last Supper” of Christianity
The controversial performance depicted over a dozen drag queens arranged along a long table in a tableau reminiscent of Leonardo da Vinci’s painting, portraying Jesus’ final meal with his disciples.
Bishop Barron questioned why France chose to “mock this very central moment in Christianity” during an event intended to highlight French culture, emphasizing that France’s cultural identity “is grounded very much in Christianity.” He further argued that the organizers would not have dared to mock Islam in a similar manner.
Gavin Calver, the CEO of the UK Evangelical Alliance, also expressed disappointment, labeling the depiction as “utterly insensitive, unnecessary, and offensive.” Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, described the performance as “extremely disrespectful to Christians” and stated that “Christianity has become toothless.”
The scene quickly sparked backlash on social media, drawing particular criticism for seemingly including a child. Some social media commentators branded the performance as “woke,” while others pointed out that the organizers would not have mocked Islam in such a way.
The French Bishops’ Conference criticized the “scenes of derision and mockery of Christianity,” expressing deep concern. Bishop Robert Barron of Minnesota called it a “gross mockery of the Last Supper,” emphasizing the need for Catholics to make their voices heard. Other religious denominations also expressed solidarity, condemning the blasphemous act.
In response, Bishop Donald Hying of Madison, Wisconsin, urged Catholics to fast, pray, and renew their devotion to the Eucharist, the Sacred Heart, and the Virgin Mary. Elon Musk and United States Senator Marco Rubio also found the spectacle disrespectful to Christians. The controversy highlights the tension between secularism and religious faith in modern society.
