Gelato Messina, a renowned ice-cream establishment, found itself embroiled in controversy over the Easter weekend due to the name of one of its special flavors. The ice-cream flavor initially named ‘Cheesus the second coming’ sparked outrage among some members of the Christian community, who perceived it as disrespectful.
The backlash prompted a swift response from the brand, which swiftly renamed the flavor to ‘Choccy Cheesecake’ and issued an apology to customers who felt offended. Taking to Instagram, Gelato Messina expressed regret over any unintended offense caused by the original name, emphasizing a commitment to being more mindful in its future communications.
However, despite the brand’s efforts to address the issue, negative feedback inundated its social media platforms, particularly from individuals within the Christian faith community. Some criticized the perceived insensitivity towards Christianity, while others questioned the sincerity of the apology.
In response to the backlash, Gelato Messina acknowledged the criticism but also highlighted instances of unacceptable behavior, including threats directed towards its staff. Despite the controversy, some customers defended the brand, urging others to prioritize perspective and not overreact to the ice cream’s name.
Notably, the incident attracted attention beyond social media, with controversial figures like Charlie Bakhos, founder of Christian Lives, condemning the perceived mockery of Jesus. Bakhos highlighted the impact of the controversy on the brand’s ratings, emphasizing the need for respect in discussions concerning religious beliefs.
As the debate continues to unfold, Gelato Messina has been contacted for further comment on the matter.
