Madonna has defended the mock crucifixion depicted in her new live show, which premiered in Los Angeles this week, saying it was done in the name of charity. While Madonna sings from the cross, images of poverty simultaneously flash behind her on a screen, and the singer said her goal was prompt the audience to donate to impoverished nations. "I don't think Jesus would be mad at me and the message I'm trying to send," she told the NY Post. "Jesus taught that we should love thy neighbor."

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