St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City announced Thursday that it was tricked into hosting the funeral of an atheist and trans identity activist. new york post report.
The cathedral held the funeral of Cecilia Gentili, 52, an Argentine-born activist who championed the trans community, sex workers, and people with HIV/AIDs. new york times report.
More than 1,000 people attended last week’s service, arriving at the cathedral wearing miniskirts, fishnet stockings and high heels. The event began with a performance of “This Day” by actor Billy Porter. From the pulpit, Gentili’s grieving friends called for easier access to so-called gender-affirming medical services. Loud attendees also reportedly danced to “Ave Maria” in the church aisle, during which a customer changed the lyrics to “Ave Cecilia.” The newspaper said Gentili’s photo had the words “transvestite,” “prostitute,” “blessed” and “mother” surrounded by the text of Psalm 25.
“This great prostitute, Saint Cecilia, the mother of all prostitutes,” said one of the attendees who introduced Gentili. “Today we tell you that we will meet soon, and that you will continue your legacy and give us the strength and courage to continue the challenges ahead.”
The funeral sparked outrage from the Catholic community, which accused Gentili’s family and friends of mocking their faith.
Pastor Enrique Salvo claimed the church was deceived into hosting the funeral.in statement “We would like to thank the many people who have let us know that they share our outrage at the scandalous conduct at the funeral here at St. Patrick’s Cathedral earlier this week,” Salvo wrote on the diocese’s website. Thank you.”
“The Cathedral only knows that family and friends are requesting a Catholic funeral Mass, and we cannot believe that our welcome and prayers could be degraded in such a sacrilegious and deceptive manner.” “We didn’t have it,” Salvo continued. “It makes the situation even worse that such a scandal has occurred in the ‘Parish Church of America,’ at a time when Lent, the annual 40-day battle against the forces of sin and darkness, is beginning. What happened is a stark reminder of how much we need the prayers that this holy season calls us to: redemption, repentance, grace, and mercy. ”
The event’s organizer, Sayen Dorocho, confirmed to the Times that Gentili never informed the church that he was transgender.
In a statement to new york daily newsGentili’s family claimed the service brought “precious life and radical joy to the cathedral in a historic defiance of the church’s hypocrisy and anti-trans hatred.”
“Cecilia Gentili’s funeral, which filled the pews in a way that only a cathedral can do during Easter services and the funeral of a New York City police officer, was a reflection of her love for her community and the impact of her tireless advocacy. It was a testament to his strength,” his family said. news outlet. “Her heart and hands reached out to those whom the holy Church continues to neglect, oppress, and discipline, and transformed the material conditions of countless people, including the homeless and those in need of medical care. .
“The only deception that exists in St. Patrick’s Cathedral is that it claims to be a place where all are welcome,” they added.
At the cardinal’s direction, an unusual event was held in the cathedral. Saturday Mass of Penance To make amends for the funeral.
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