Priest's viral poolside photo sparks controversy in Spain

Spanish media have reported on the case of Father Marco Antonio Martinez Moreno, whose photo went viral on social media. The priest was allegedly holding a mass by a pool with beachgoers in swimsuits. The Salesian priest from Cádiz caused a stir, prompting him to provide an explanation.

According to the portal infovaticana.com, the photo was taken during a Salesian camp in the town of Islantilla in Huelva province. The photograph shows the priest with two beachgoers. Father Marco Antonio Martinez Moreno is dressed in a white robe, while the young people holding the chalice and host are in swimsuits.

It appears the photo was taken at a pool. The young people seem to have just come out of the water. It was unclear whether the photo was indeed taken during a mass. Interestingly, Father Moreno himself posted it on his social media profile.

Celebrate the Eucharist, morning prayers, and the sacrament of reconciliation in such a way that children can live a normal life throughout the year, as they are accustomed to, and not just in exceptional moments – wrote the priest in the description of the photo.

The Diocese of Jerez de la Frontera issued a statement regarding the photo that stirred public opinion. As stated, the bishop asked the priest for an explanation. Father Moreno explained that the photo was not taken during a holy mass but during an explanation of the different parts of the Eucharist. The situation captured in the photo occurred before the service began.

I am very sorry for anything that might have caused harm to our beloved Church – said the priest, as quoted by the diocese.

The Spanish priest was reminded that such conduct is not appropriate. Father Moreno received a warning from the bishop. It is worth noting, however, that this is not the first time the Salesian from Cádiz has made headlines. In 2020, the priest reportedly performed magic tricks during the Eucharist, which was attended by students.