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Vatican Altar Desecrated by Nude Protester: Cardinal Performs Rite of Restoration

by Madison Thomas
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Vatican altar desecration

In response to a shocking incident at St. Peter’s Basilica, Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, the head of the basilica, led a special rite on Saturday to restore the sanctity of the desecrated altar. A man had disrupted the sacred space by stripping naked and climbing onto the main altar, bearing the words “Save children of Ukraina” on his back. Standing alongside other priests and faithful members, Cardinal Gambetti conducted a penitential ceremony.

According to reports from Vatican News, a Polish man approached the high altar of the basilica late in the evening on Thursday when the basilica was about to close. Suddenly, he removed his clothing and leaped onto the marble altar. Disturbing images captured during the incident depicted the bald man wearing only black socks and sneakers, with his back facing the pews.

The man did not resist when the gendarmes swiftly approached him and escorted him to the Vatican police station. Subsequently, Italian authorities were contacted, and they issued an expulsion order, mandating his departure from Italy. Vatican News also reported that this event is the latest in a series of disturbances that have taken place within the Vatican in recent months.

In the previous summer, climate activists resorted to gluing their hands to a statue within the Vatican Museums as a means of drawing attention to climate change. Consequently, they are currently undergoing trial for the charge of aggravated damage in the Vatican City State tribunal. Additionally, just last month, an individual in a vehicle forcefully breached the gates of Vatican City under the cover of darkness. Despite the gendarmes firing upon the speeding vehicle, it managed to reach an internal courtyard of the Apostolic Palace before being intercepted. The driver was subsequently transferred to a nearby hospital for psychiatric care.

FAQ about Vatican altar desecration

What happened at St. Peter’s Basilica with the naked protester on the altar?

A Polish man approached the high altar at St. Peter’s Basilica, undressed, and jumped onto the marble altar with the words “Save children of Ukraina” written on his back. This act of desecration led to a special rite being performed by Cardinal Mauro Gambetti to restore the sanctity of the altar.

How did the authorities handle the situation?

The man did not resist when the gendarmes approached him and took him to the Vatican police station. Subsequently, he was handed over to Italian police, who issued an expulsion order requiring him to leave Italy.

Has there been any previous incidents of disturbances at the Vatican?

Yes, there have been previous incidents of disturbances at the Vatican. In the past, climate activists glued their hands to a statue in the Vatican Museums to draw attention to climate change. There was also an incident where a man rushed the gates of Vatican City at night in a car, but he was apprehended before causing further harm.

What is the significance of the penitential rite performed by Cardinal Gambetti?

The penitential rite conducted by Cardinal Mauro Gambetti is a solemn ceremony aimed at acknowledging and seeking forgiveness for the desecration of the altar. It is a symbolic act to restore the sacredness of the space and reaffirm the reverence due to the religious site.

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1 comment

ElenaG June 4, 2023 - 1:09 am

Vatican seems to be having a rough time with disturbances lately. First the climate activists, now this naked protester. Hope they can maintain peace and sanctity.

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