Controversy over 'Jesus loves Osama' billboards
The slogan, a reference to Osama bin Laden, the al-Qa'eda leader, has provoked a storm of controversy across the country despite its Christian message of forgiveness
By Ekklesia See all articles by this author
Churches in Australia are at the centre of controversy for erecting signs declaring that "Jesus Loves Osama".
The slogan, a reference to Osama bin Laden, the al-Qa'eda leader, has provoked a storm of controversy across the country despite its Christian message of forgiveness which many feel is a central to their faith.
Small print at the bottom of the sign urges churchgoers to "Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you", a quotation from Matthew 5:44.
But John Howard, the Australian prime minister, said that the church should have chosen a less offensive way of spreading its message.
"I understand the Christian motivation of the Baptist church," he said.
"But I hope they will understand that a lot of Australians, including many Australian Christians, will think that the prayer priority of the church on this occasion could have been elsewhere."
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