Roman Catholic Church in Paris hosts LGBT show
An LGBT circus performance was held in the former Catholic Chapel of Joan of Arc in Paris, sparking outrage among believers over the desecration of a shrine.
From April 16 to 25, 2026, an LGBT circus performance took place in Paris inside the former Catholic Chapel of St. Joan of Arc, causing outrage among believers, Tribune Chrétienne reports.
The show was held inside the church, where crosses, stained-glass windows, and other Christian sacred objects remain. The organizers describe the performance as part of so-called “queer culture,” aimed at rethinking traditional norms.
During the performance, artists in revealing costumes performed acrobatic and dance routines accompanied by lighting effects and interaction with the audience. The altar had been removed and replaced with a stage structure, while the rest of the church interior remained unchanged.
Catholic priest Matthieu Raffray sharply condemned what happened, calling the use of the former church for such events a deliberate desecration of a shrine. According to him, even after desacralization, such places retain spiritual significance and must be treated with respect.
The priest stressed that he does not oppose the participants themselves, but considers it unacceptable to hold such events within church walls, as it shows disrespect for the faith, history, and Christian heritage.
The building reportedly once belonged to a monastic community but was sold and converted into a cultural space. According to the priest, believers’ offers to buy back the chapel were rejected.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that Hungary is preparing to launch an LGBT channel amid its course toward the EU.