Apparently Madonna will proceed with another crucifixion performance when she plays a show in Germany this Sunday. But Christians, Jews and Muslims shouldn't be offended, according to Madonna's spokeswoman:

Madonna's New York-based spokeswoman, Liz Rosenberg, denied that the star's show was insulting.

"The context of Madonna's performance on the crucifix is not negative nor disrespectful toward the church," she said.

The context? Well, here's a video from the performance in Rome. Apparently Madonna says the crucifixion "is part of an appeal for Aids charities". If true, Madonna's artistic integrity went down several notches in my book. A later video shows a screen behind her with rapidly increasing numbers, probably a numerical representation of the AIDS victims; later on pictures of children are shown on the screen behind her. What does her fluorescent cross have to do with any of this? This is the most effective way that she could make an appeal for a very worthwhile cause, AIDS charities? What does she think putting herself on the cross represents?

A cross is, in one sense, just two pieces of wood nailed together. But in a fuller sense, the cross is a symbol of the faith of billions of people all over the world. Why purposefully portray such a symbol in a way you KNOW will offend people? The BBC article talks about possible criminal prosecution, apparently Germany has laws regarding "insulting religious beliefs". I don't think prosecution is warranted, but on the grounds of good taste and tolerance, why include such an act in the performance? If there are equally good ways (probably much, much better ways) to get your message about AIDS across, why choose this method?

I suspect that the reason may be to generate publicity. After all, without this little stunt, who would care about Madonna's latest tour? Not many. Therefore, the AIDS appeal is secondary at best, making Madonna and her performance insincere. I appreciate that she is using her star power to try to do something positive re the AIDS problem, but this is certainly not a good way to go about it.

Further information: Go deeper!

• Blood:Water Mission – Charity which seeks to provide AIDS education and treatment, along with clean drinking water, all across Africa. Currently involved in the "1000 Wells" project which aims to build 1000 wells in African towns. Currently nearly 60 wells are completed or in progress with more on the way.
• Why did Jesus have to die? – A former skeptic wrestles with some of Christianity's most basic issues.