Ofcom, the UK’s communications regulator, has sanctioned LoveWorld Television Ministry, a Christian network founded by Chris Oyakhilome, for airing “potentially harmful statements” about the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to the regulator in a statement released on Monday, programmes aired in early April by Oyakhilome’s LoveWorld perpetuated baseless conspiracy that the virus is linked to the roll-out of 5G phone networks and insinuations of a “global coverup”.
Ofcom said the LoveWorld programme also echoed claims from US president Donald Trump that an anti-malaria drug, hydroxychloroquine, was a cure for the virus.
“LoveWorld News featured potentially harmful statements about the coronavirus pandemic and adequate protection was not provided to viewers,” the statement from Ofcom said.
“We have imposed a sanction on the broadcaster, requiring it to broadcast statements of our findings. We are considering whether to impose any further sanction,” the statement added.
Oyakhilome’s Loveworld, also known as Christ Embassy, is based in Lagos but has operations in several countries across the world, including the United States and the United Kingdom.
The church has at least 90 branches in the UK and an estimated 13 million followers around the world, according to one estimate.
In footage of sermons circulated on social media during the pandemic, Oyakhilome has been seen criticising lockdown measures and casting aspersions on the value of a vaccine.
Read the full Ofcom statement:
Ofcom has today imposed a sanction on the licensee Loveworld Limited, which broadcasts the religious television channel Loveworld, after a news programme and a live sermon included potentially harmful claims about causes of, and treatments for, Covid-19.
Our investigation found that a report on Loveworld News included unsubstantiated claims that 5G was the cause of the pandemic, and that this was the subject of a “global cover-up”. Another report during the programme presented hydroxychloroquine as a “cure” for Covid-19, without acknowledging that its effectiveness and safety as a treatment was clinically unproven, or making clear that it has potentially serious side effects.
A sermon broadcast on Your Loveworld also included unsubstantiated claims linking the pandemic to 5G technology; as well as claims which cast serious doubt on the necessity for lockdown measures and the motives behind official health advice on Covid-19, including in relation to vaccination. These views were presented as facts without evidence or challenge.
Ofcom stresses that there is no prohibition on broadcasting controversial views which diverge from, or challenge, official authorities on public health information. However, given the unsubstantiated claims in both these programmes were not sufficiently put into context, they risked undermining viewers’ trust in official health advice, with potentially serious consequences for public health.
Given these serious failings, we concluded that Loveworld Limited did not adequately protect viewers from the potentially harmful content in the news programme and the sermon, and the news reports were not duly accurate. We have directed Loveworld Limited to broadcast statements of our findings and are now considering whether to impose any further sanction.
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Vatican Museum Tours
The Vatican Museum: A Journey Through Time and Art
Nestled within the Vatican City, the Vatican Museums stand as one of the most iconic cultural institutions in the world. With their unparalleled collection of art and history, they offer an extraordinary experience for visitors from all walks of life. Housing over 70,000 works of art, with 20,000 on display, these museums are a testament to humanity’s enduring quest for beauty, knowledge, and spirituality.
A Brief History
The origins of the Vatican Museums trace back to 1506 when Pope Julius II acquired a marble statue known as “Laocoon and His Sons.” This masterpiece marked the beginning of what would become one of the most extensive and revered art collections in the world. Over the centuries, successive Popes expanded the collection, commissioning and acquiring works from renowned artists and civilizations spanning millennia.
Today, the Vatican Museums are a series of interconnected museums and galleries, showcasing art and artifacts from ancient Egypt, classical antiquity, the Renaissance, and beyond. They serve as a bridge between the past and present, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a world of creativity and devotion.
Highlights of the Vatican Museums
1. The Sistine Chapel:
The Sistine Chapel is arguably the crown jewel of the Vatican Museums. Michelangelo’s breathtaking frescoes, including the iconic “The Creation of Adam” and “The Last Judgment,” adorn its ceiling and altar wall. These masterpieces are considered some of the greatest achievements in the history of art, offering a profound spiritual and artistic experience.
2. Raphael Rooms:
Commissioned by Pope Julius II, the Raphael Rooms showcase the genius of Renaissance artist Raphael. The “School of Athens,” a depiction of classical philosophers, is a standout piece that exemplifies harmony, perspective, and intellectual depth.
3. Gallery of Maps:
A visual feast for cartography enthusiasts, the Gallery of Maps features 40 detailed topographical maps of Italy, meticulously painted by Ignazio Danti in the late 16th century. The vibrant colors and intricate details make this gallery a must-see.
4. Gregorian Egyptian Museum:
For those intrigued by ancient civilizations, the Gregorian Egyptian Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Egypt’s history. With mummies, statues, and papyri, it transports visitors to a time of pharaohs and pyramids.
5. Pinacoteca:
The Pinacoteca, or picture gallery, houses an impressive collection of paintings from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. Works by Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio, and Titian are among its treasures.
Tips for Visiting the Vatican Museums
Book Tickets in Advance: The Vatican Museums attract millions of visitors annually. To avoid long queues, consider purchasing skip-the-line tickets or guided tour packages online.
Choose the Right Time: Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon can help you avoid peak crowds. Wednesday mornings are especially busy due to the Pope’s weekly audience.
Dress Appropriately: As a religious site, the Vatican has a dress code. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered to gain entry.
Take a Guided Tour: To fully appreciate the history and significance of the collections, opt for a guided tour. Expert guides provide insightful commentary, enriching your experience.
Allocate Sufficient Time: The museums are vast, and exploring them can take several hours. Prioritize your must-see areas and allow time to soak in the ambiance.
The Cultural Significance of the Vatican Museums
The Vatican Museums are more than a repository of art; they represent a convergence of faith, culture, and human achievement. They bear witness to the Catholic Church’s role in preserving and fostering artistic expression throughout history. The collections highlight the interplay between spirituality and creativity, offering visitors a profound connection to the divine and the universal human experience.
Practical Information
Location: Vatican City, accessible from Rome.
Opening Hours: Typically open Monday through Saturday, with limited hours on Sundays. Check the official website for holiday schedules.
Tickets: Standard entry fees vary, with discounts available for students and children.
Accessibility: The museums are wheelchair accessible, with lifts and pathways designed for visitors with mobility challenges.
The Vatican Museums are a treasure trove of art, history, and spirituality, offering a transformative journey through humanity’s creative and cultural legacy. Whether you are an art aficionado, a history enthusiast, or a spiritual seeker, the museums promise an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit today to explore one of the world’s greatest cultural landmarks and discover the timeless beauty that lies within its walls.