I was reading an article on CNN.com about Mel Gibson’s new film, when I noticed this tidbit:

Already, merchandise associated with the film is on shelves and moving swiftly. A companion book to the film was at No. 20 on Amazon.com’s list as of Tuesday afternoon, and movie tie-ins range from replica crucifixion nails to Sunday morning sermons. [emphasis added]

Maybe I just have an over active sense of propriety, but this just seems bizarre to me. Of all the movies to merchanise, one that graphically depicts the death of a religion’s savior wouldn’t be the top of my list.

When I googled it, the first hit was Landover Baptist, so I thought that maybe some idiot reporter was sucked into a joke. Sadly no. Beyond Blessed sells a whole host of “The Passion of the Christ” branded items, including coffee mugs, lapel pins and even replica nails. Sadly, no replica “Pieces of the True Cross” or replica reliquaries. AND, there is a companion book??? Isn’t the companion book “The Gospel According to Matthew?” I’m still trying to decide if a “Passion” branded coffee cup would get someone going in the morning or if it would be the caffine in said cup that gives that morning kick. Anyway, more power to those that get spiritual upliftment from it and to Mel for being able to do it. Still seems on the same order of wierdness to me as marketing “Soylent Green” branded Happy Meals.

I’m just praying that I don’t see action figures.