An Italian church is under fire for its controversial nativity scene, which depicts baby Jesus with two mothers, sparking outrage and accusations of blasphemy. Pro-Vita & Famiglia (Pro-Life and Family), a pro-life group, has taken action by launching a petition that has already garnered over 23,000 signatures, urging the Bishop of Avellino to intervene in the matter.
The nativity display in question is located at the Church of Saints Peter and Paul in Capocastello di Mercogliano, in the province of Avellino. Father Vitaliano Della Sala, the priest responsible for the controversial scene, defended his decision, stating, “I wanted to show with this scene that families are no longer just the traditional ones. In our parishes we see more and more children from the new types of families that exist and are part of our society, children of separated and divorced people, gay couples, single people, young mothers.”
Father Della Sala, known for his support of the LGBT community and far-left causes, also referenced Pope Francis’ recent announcement allowing priests to bless same-sex couples as a means of defending the nativity. The depiction of baby Jesus with two mothers has sparked strong reactions, with the Pro-Vita petition accusing the church of sacrificing Saint Joseph on the “altar of political correctness.”
The petition describes the nativity scene as a “blasphemous and provocative representation that distorts the meaning of the Nativity scene itself and of the Holy Family.” It also condemns the portrayal of ‘two mothers’ as sanctifying a practice as illegal as the buying and selling of gametes. The petition urges Bishop of Avellino, Monsignor Arturo Aiello, to intervene against what they deem as an “LGBT provocation.”
Senator Maurizio Gasparri, of the co-ruling Forza Italia party, expressed his disapproval, stating that the nativity scene “offends all those who always had respect and devotion for the Holy Family.” The controversy has gained significant attention on social media, with critics and supporters alike voicing their opinions on the matter.
The clash over the nativity scene highlights the ongoing debate over traditional and non-traditional family structures. It has also reignited discussions about the intersection of religious beliefs, societal norms, and personal freedoms. As the petition continues to gain momentum, it remains to be seen how the church authorities will respond to the accusations of blasphemy and the calls for intervention. The standoff between the church and its critics underscores the deep divisions within Italian society on matters of faith, family, and representation in religious settings.
