Church leaders halt plans to hold fundraising ‘crucifixions’

Those behind the idea have called it an unforgettable Easter experience.

But church leaders are less enthused about a plan to “crucify” members of the public in a cathedral garden – who would pay £750 for the privilege – and have had forced it to be scrapped.

Those willing would have been hoisted on to a cross for an “almost authentic” experience “you are never likely to forget”.

Organisers were hoping to raise money for a play about Christ’s final days, believing the experience would add an additional £8,000, bringing funds up to £60,000.

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But it met with opposition, not least from Manchester Cathedral’s Reverend Canon Falak Sher — who is also chairman of the play’s organising committee.

He called the idea “un-Christian, disgraceful and blasphemy”, the Sun reports.

Those who are crucified were to be given front-row seats to Saturday’s Passion play. Geoff Millard, the play’s creative director, said the crucifixions would “feel very real” and be “an experience”.

“Of course there will be no nails or any pain inflicted whatsoever, but the rest of the experience will feel very real,” he said.

“You will be hoisted up onto the cross, following a full health and safety brief.”

He later admitted people “got carried away”. But Alex Stewart-Clark, who promotes biblical dramas, said: “You can either play it safe and be square and not raise money or you can be constructive and try to be imaginative.

“Sometimes crazy ideas work, sometimes they don’t. You can be prudish or you can embrace it. The clergy didn’t like it.”