Mock crucifixion shocks shoppers

The re-enactment is intended to shock

Shoppers in Reading expressed their shock as Christian campaigners re-enacted the crucifixion of Jesus in the heart of the town centre.

The Good Friday stunt, staged by the Welsh-based charity, Focal Point, saw the man playing the part of Jesus drip fake blood from his palms and body as he hung from a wooden cross.

The charity's spokesman said they had intended to get across the true message of Easter, and said it was "too bad" if it offended people.

A similar act by the group in Wales in 2000 caused people to dial 999 as they believed the man on the cross was in genuine pain.

Easter 'gimmick'

Ian Willis from Focal Point said: "We want to create a stir and shock people out of their consumerist complacency.

"Easter is not about fluffy bunnies and eating chocolate eggs, it's about what Jesus did for us and if this offends people then that's too bad."

Christian group spokesman Ian Willis

However, the scene alarmed those passing, even some fellow Christians, who were disgusted by the "gimmick."

Church-goers Maria Lewis and Natalie Franklin described the stunt as "sacrilegious."

Ms Franklin said: "It frightened my eight-year-old son.

"They really ought to tone it down, but instead they're using banners and a microphone."

Maria Lewis said: "I believe that Easter should be observed, but not by shoving some poor bloke in a nappy on a cross and pouring red paint over him.

Emergency call

Members of Focal Point were delighted by the reaction.

Mr Willis said: "We staged the 'crucifixion' in the Rhonnda Valley, and a passer-by actually went to call an ambulance from a phone box, thinking the man was bleeding to death.

"We were also quoted in the men's magazine Maxim for being the No.1 cause for stupid 999 call-outs, so we are getting our message across."

The charity has now set its sights on central London:

Mr Willis said: "We want to set up by a famous landmark, but next time with a fully naked Jesus."