APKMN kicks against ‘Dirty Christmas’ film, urges respect for Christian values

The Association of Papal Knights and Medalists in Nigeria (APKMN) has rejected the title, content and producers of a film titled A Dirty Christmas, describing it as a distortion of the sacred meaning of Christmas.

The association expressed concern over what it called the gross misrepresentation of the Christian celebration, stating that the film undermines the spiritual significance of Christmas, which commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ.

APKMN also frowned at the use of the term “Xmas” in the film, noting that such terminology diminishes the importance of the holy season and trivializes Christian beliefs.

In a statement jointly signed by the Vice President of APKMN, Rt. Hon. Dame Helen Osanakpo, and the Secretary General, Hon. Rosemary Azumi, and made available to journalists in Abuja, the association said it was outraged by the film’s portrayal of Christmas.

“We, the Papal Knights and Medalists in Nigeria, in solidarity with the Knights of St Mulumba Nigeria and Christian Association of Nigeria, write to express our outrage and disappointment over the film titled ‘A Dirty Christmas,’” the statement read.

According to the association, “This title is a gross misrepresentation of the true essence of Christmas, a celebration that has been revered for centuries, commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace.”

It stressed that Christmas is a period of love, joy and redemption, observed by Christians around the world with deep devotion.

“We are particularly disturbed by the use of derogatory terminology such as ‘Xmas’ which diminishes the significance of this sacred occasion,” the statement said.

“These terms are often used to trivialize the Christian faith and its traditions, and we view this as an affront to the values of love, compassion, and forgiveness that Jesus Christ embodied.”

APKMN noted that Christmas is not merely a public holiday but a celebration of values that have shaped civilization and continue to inspire people globally.

The association recalled the words of Pope Francis on the importance of preserving the sanctity of Christmas, quoting him as saying: “The Christmas season is a time for reflection, prayer, and renewal of our commitment to living the Gospel message.”

“We urge you to respect this message and refrain from actions that undermine the sacredness of this occasion,” the statement added.

The group further described the title A Dirty Christmas as an attempt to desecrate a holy celebration, insisting that such portrayal is unacceptable.

APKMN called on Christians and people of goodwill to join in condemning the film and urged relevant authorities to take steps to prevent what it described as blasphemous content in the future.