07/29/2024
The 2024 French Olympics kicked off with the opening ceremony, which contained various artistic and musical displays to share France's history and culture. Some of these displays have been called "controversial.” I wanted to share my thoughts on the opening ceremonies.
The choice to "parody" the art of Leonardo da Vinci's, 'The Last Supper,' was poor taste at best or a targeted attack on Christianity at its worst.
The freedom of speech, whether spoken, written, or through art, is a core right of our American values. I personally believe free speech is critical to grow as a society and work through our differences. Yet, as Catholics, we believe that true freedom is centered on choosing good, and that the more you choose to do good, the freer you become.
The choice of the Olympics platform and its audience for the 'Last Supper' parody was inappropriate. The Olympics is an event designed to bring the people of world together, but instead, ended up insulting 2.4 billion Christians. There will be a range of opinions regarding the depth of the offense, but Catholics, especially those who are actively practicing their faith, deeply feel the blasphemous nature of this display.
Why was it so offensive? The Last Supper is core of Christian faith. It's part of Christ's redemption of the world, the model of the Catholic Mass, and the first consecration of the Holy Eucharist. It is when Christ tells us that He loves us so much that He is choosing to die for us. It is a moment so sacred that when it occurs at a Catholic mass everyone kneels in great reverence and respect. The Truth, goodness, and beauty of this moment is so profound that we ponder its meaning weekly and continue to find deeper meaning. Therefore, for it to be depicted artistically in such a way as at the Olympics with conflicting ideologies was disrespectful.
When we express our hurts, speak the truth and share our beliefs with love for one another, we encourage productive discussions to build bridges between different groups.
To those who disagree, I ask that you read all that I wrote prior to commenting. I ask that you do not justify current evils with past evils, as two wrongs never make a right. The Church has grown over the past two thousand years and what you may have heard regarding our beliefs from the media or friends/family who may have left the church are probably not accurate or true.
