The funeral seemed very fishy.
A petition with over 11,775 signatures is urging Cardinal Timothy Dolan of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York to perform an exorcism on St. Patrick’s Cathedral following a controversial funeral service for Cecilia Gentili, a prominent trans-identified activist. The petition, initiated by LifePetitions, alleges that the funeral, held on Feb. 15, was deeply disrespectful and sacrilegious, and it calls for decisive action to address what it perceives as a desecration of sacred space.
In a letter accompanying the petition addressed to Cardinal Dolan, the organizers express grave concerns over what they deem a “shameful moment” for the Catholic Church in the United States. They argue that the funeral service for Gentili, characterized as a former prostitute and trans activist, not only ridiculed the Virgin-Martyr St. Cecilia but also defiled St. Patrick’s Cathedral with inappropriate language and attire.
The petition highlights offensive incidents witnessed during the funeral, including derogatory remarks aimed at Catholic saints and inappropriate intercessions. The organizers emphasize The New York Times’ portrayal of the event as unprecedented in Catholic history, underlining the severity of the desecration of sacred spaces and traditions.
Despite criticism directed at the lack of reverence shown by attendees towards the cathedral and the officiant’s remarks, the Archdiocese of New York responded by stating that they had already conducted a Mass of Reparation in response to the concerns raised. Canon Law dictates that sacred places can be desecrated by actions considered gravely injurious and scandalous, necessitating penitential rites to restore their sanctity.
In response to the Archdiocese’s condemnation of the funeral, Gentili’s family criticized the statement as indicative of “anti-trans hypocrisy and hatred,” asserting that Gentili’s activism aimed to reach marginalized communities often overlooked by the church. The petition and subsequent reactions underscore the deep-seated divisions and tensions surrounding issues of identity, activism, and religious tradition, particularly within the context of Catholic teachings and practices.