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Rome Against Madonna`s Mock-Crucifixion

Madonna never stops providing entertainment to her fans. Her shows are always full of innovations, constant changing of costumes and extravagant choreography. In her latest show, Madonna appears on a giant cross wearing a crown of thorns.Leaders of the main religions in Rome have joined forces against the mock-crucifixion in the US pop star music and entertainment show.

Father Manfredo Leone of Rome`s Santa Maria Liberatrice church told a news agency it was "disrespectful, in bad taste and provocative". Muslim and Jewish leaders have also raised objections. The 47-year-old entertainment star`s Confessions world tour received similar complaints during its American leg, when she has been accused in major deliberate insensitivity.

The entertainment and music diva has defended the imagery. She said it forms part of an appeal to the entertainment audience to donate to Aids charities. However, Father Leone does not agree. "Being raised on a cross with a crown of thorns like a modern Christ is absurd," he said. "Doing it in the cradle of Christianity comes close to blasphemy." Madonna has caused some disagreements in the entertainment world before, especially with her 1989 Like a Prayer video, which featured a black Christ-like figure and burning crosses, and a 1993 tour in which she simulated masturbation on stage.