An artistic event is causing a stir in Montpellier, as it is described as nothing less than a "Black Mass of Emotions" in the former chapel of the Saint Charles General Hospital (17th-18th centuries), which was deconsecrated and became the Maison des Choeurs (House of Choirs) in 2006. It is scheduled for October 31 at 7 p.m.
While there is no desecration because the building is deconsecrated, and this event falls under the umbrella of artistic freedom (or even freedom of enterprise), the question of respect for the dead arises (Articles 16 et seq. of the Civil Code) since the building still contains graves – even if, ostensibly, the organizers do not intend to desecrate them (Article 225-17 of the Penal Code).
The event description announces, in no particular order: “A (de)secrated but repurposed space for a black mass of emotions, sounds, bodies, and lights; incantatory concerts with the eccentric Schlaasss, the mystical Machinalis Tarantulae, and a demonic dance floor.” It also includes esoteric performers in alcoves and the confessional, living rituals, and communion with the forbidden.
Guests have “only one rule: come possessed, because this evening promises to be more intense than ever.”
According to its official website, this is one of the events of the Ex Tenebris Lux festival, which champions a “goth” and “metal” culture and features “programming in unusual venues: churches, crypts, atypical and mythical locations.”
According to a video made by young people from Montpellier who are outraged by this event—which falls under the right to freedom of expression—this official presentation has since been modified and toned down to remove the most anti-Christian aspects.
A petition addressed to the mayor of Montpellier has since been launched, calling for the cancellation of the event.