From a reader.
I’ve visited Dresden in Germany yesterday and my first steps led to the Catholic cathedral. To my greatest horror and shock, I’ve discovered this monstrous “thing” in the side chapel. I have asked the lady working in the cathedral shop what it is and she said: “It’s Mary with Jesus”. I asked one more time (I couldn’t believe that): “.THIS is the Virgin Mary with Jesus?”. She replied with mischievous grin: “Of course”. I left quite sad, not spiritually strengthened, but rather doubtful about the Catholic Church.
The chapel was orignally dedicated to St. Ioannes Nepomucen, a Czech saint – a perfect example for the post-war reconciliation. Instead, the orignal altar was taken away and the horrible blasphemy erected. The author of this mockery of the most holy Mother of God and her Divine Son is Friedrich Press. Wikipedia entry in German language does not reveal too much about him. I wonder if you have readers who could perhaps provide more info about his life. The man must have been mad or evil.
Unfortunately, it’s not the first time when I see doubtful “art” in Catholic Churches. I wonder, is it perhaps intentional? Do they try to push away people from churches? If you decide to share this story with other readers, then don’t publish my name please.
P.S. Apologies for the quality of the image, picture taken by a mobile phone in a dark environment.
Now for the really bad news:
Just so you can have a closer look. Click for a larger shot:
