Vatican newspaper publishes article decrying radical French secularism
April 08, 2015
L’Osservatore Romano has published an article denouncing the decision by RATP, France’s state-owned public transit company, to remove the words “for the benefit of Eastern Christians” from 250 posters advertising a benefit concert for persecuted Eastern Christians.
RATP cited “respect for the principle of religious neutrality” in making its decision.
The article, which originally appeared in Slate, was written by French religion journalist Henri Tincq, who also criticized other recent manifestations of radical secularism, including an order to a rabbi to remove his yarmulke before he could vote.
According to an update on the Slate website, RATP has reversed course and will permit the words “for the benefit of Eastern Christians” to appear on the next round of subway posters.
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Further information:
- Quandoci si ammala di laicità (L’Osservatore Romano, p. 5)
- La censure de l'affiche du concert des Prêtres symbolise une France malade de sa laïcité (Slate)
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Posted by: bernie4871 -
Apr. 08, 2015 7:41 PM ET USA
I feel like I am addle brained. What is this news item trying to tell us? Was the article in L'Oservatore Romano or SLATE? The words "for the benefit of Eastern Christians" which had appeared will now be permitted to appear? What are you talking about? I must add, however, that I agree with the comment of Gil125 posted at 3:48 PM today?
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Posted by: Gil125 -
Apr. 08, 2015 3:48 PM ET USA
I know the Vatican doesn't pride itself on keeping up with the latest news, but really, this does date to at least 1789.
