MOSUL, IRAQ — Iraqi Christians, led by the Syriac Catholic Archbishop of Mosul, Younan Hano, have initiated a call for fasting and prayer as a response to what they perceive as a grievous insult to Christianity during the Olympic Games' opening ceremony.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the community was taken aback by the portrayal of Christian religious symbols during the event, which featured artists generally associated with the LGBTQ+ community reenacting the Last Supper. The archbishop expressed dismay that such a representation came from France, a nation known for its secular and inclusive values. He emphasized the need for prayer and fasting to seek divine forgiveness for the insult not only to religion but also to humanity.

The incident also drew criticism from the Chaldean Catholic Church in Iraq. Cardinal Louis Raphaël Sako released a statement condemning the portrayal, labeling it as shameful and divisive, counter to the Olympic principles of unity, respect, and cooperation. This sentiment was echoed earlier by French bishops, who decried the act as mockery of Christianity.

In response to the growing backlash, Paris 2024's communications director, Anne Descamps, issued an apology yesterday, clarifying that the intention of the ceremony was to promote tolerance and communion, not to disrespect any religious group. The apology aimed to address the concerns raised and soothe the offended parties.