Fr. Lombardi: Statement on advertising campaign

The Director of the Holy See press office Father Federico Lombardi has issued a statement denouncing a advertising campaign by clothing company “United Colors of Benetton launched yesterday, that makes improper use of the image of the Holy Father.

He said, it was a “completely unacceptable use of the image of the Holy Father, manipulated and exploited as part of a campaign for commercial purposes.” Father Lombardi added that “it was is a serious lack of respect for the Pope, an insult the feelings of the faithful, and a clear demonstration of how in advertising you can violate basic rules of respect for people to attract attention by means of provocation.” He also said the Vatican Secretary of State is considering steps to protect the Holy Father’s image.
Benetton has since withdrawn the offending advertisement.