German diocese tightens rules after controversial Christmas Mass backlash
The Diocese of Rottenburg-Stuttgart is altering how it approves televised Christmas services following widespread criticism of its 2022 broadcast. Viewers and politicians lambasted the ARD programme for its controversial portrayal of the Nativity, deeming it disrespectful and absurd.
On Christmas Eve 2022, ARD aired a Holy Mass from Stuttgart that sparked outrage. The broadcast depicted the Christ Child wrapped in slimy rice paper and placed on straw, a depiction many found provocative. Around 1,400 complaints flooded in, with viewers expressing anger and confusion.
The diocese later admitted the liturgy had been adapted too freely for television, crossing acceptable lines. It acknowledged the broadcast had hurt religious feelings and caused irritation. Former CDU politicians, including Maximilian Mörseburg and Christian Haase, publicly criticized the programme, arguing it stripped religion of its dignity. In response, the diocese announced stricter controls for future televised services. The goal is to prevent similar deviations and ensure respect for core tenets of the faith.
The diocese’s new measures aim to restore trust in televised religious broadcasts. Future Christmas services will face tighter oversight to avoid repeating the controversies of 2022. The changes follow direct feedback from viewers and political figures.
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