A Catholic priest in the UK has sparked outrage after a Good Friday sermon that went into graphic detail about the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
Father Thomas McHale, a 53-year-old American priest serving in Consett, reportedly told his congregation of roughly 100 that due to the physical nature of crucifixion, Jesus would have died “with an erection.”
Parishioners were left stunned, with one describing the sermon as “shocking” and inappropriate for the presence of young families.
Despite the controversy, Father McHale remains employed by the church.
Investigation Launched
The Diocese of Hexham & Newcastle confirmed a complaint was received and investigated according to their protocol.
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A spokesman for the diocese of Hexham & Newcastle told the press: ‘A complaint was received and has been investigated in keeping with our diocesan complaints policy.
The investigation has been very recently completed and the complaint is upheld.’
How true are his words?
While Father McHale’s comments focused on religious symbolism, the words “death erections” are true of people who died by Crucifixion.
This physiological reaction can occur in men who die by hanging or other forms of execution.
Respectful Discussion Encouraged
Social media has been abuzz with the story, sparking discussions about the line between religious teachings and appropriate language.
The diocese of Chelmsford apologised in 2019 after the Rev Dr Anand Sodadasi, of Holy Trinity Church in Chrishall, Essex, questioned whether Father Christmas was real during a children’s service.
Last month, a Catholic ministry in the US pulled the plug on the world’s first AI priest.
