ROME:

Religious leaders have accused Madonna of “blasphemy” for staging a mock-crucifixion — minutes from The Vatican. The Queen of Pop wears a crowns of thorns and poses on a mirrored cross in a scene from her Confessions world tour which comes to Rome on August 6. Outraged Christians are calling for the singer to be “excommunicated” from the Catholic Church. Cardinal Ersilio Tonino, speaking with the Pope’s approval, was quoted by Italian newspaper La Stampa as saying, “This is a blasphemous challenge to the faith and a profanation of the Cross. She should be excommunicated. To crucify herself in the city of popes and martyrs is an act of open hostility.”

Muslin and Jewish leaders have also criticised the 47-year-old star. Mario Scialoja, president of the Muslim World League in Italy said: “We deplore it.” Riccardo Pacifici, spokesman for Rome’s Jewish community, added: “It’s a disrespectful act, and to do it in Rome is even worse.”

Madonna upset the Catholic Church with her 1989 music video for Like A Prayer, featuring burning crosses and a black Jesus.