Religious leaders in Rome have blasted Madonna for the Crucifixion imagery she uses in her Confessions stage show.

The singer is due to take the concert to the Italian capital this weekend, but officials from the Catholic Church arent happy.

One representative told an Italian newspaper, To crucify yourself in the city of the pope and the martyrs is an act of open hostility.

As reported on MTV.co.uk earlier this week Madonna appears on stage hanging from a glittery crucifix, with a crown of diamond thorns on her head, at one point in the show.

But Madge has hit back. In an official statement, her spokesperson said, Madonna does not think Jesus would be mad at her, as his teaching of loving thy neighbor and tolerance is Madonna 's message as well."

Madge famously drew the wrath of the Catholic Church in 1989 after she featured burning crosses and a black Jesus in her (MTV Top 100 Videos That Broke The Rules poll-topping) promo for 'Like A Prayer'.

Honestly, lady, dont you think itd be more controversial to just leave your crucifix at home next time?

'SLJ'