Iglesia Maradoniana
| Iglesia Maradoniana (Church of Maradona) | |
|---|---|
| Abbreviation | IM/CoM |
| Type | Christian-style movement |
| Orientation | Sport-themed Parody religion |
| Region | Argentina |
| Founder | Héctor Campomar Alejandro Verón Hernán Amez |
| Origin | 30 October 1998 Rosario, Argentina |
| Members | 120,000-200,000[1] |
The Iglesia Maradoniana (Template:Lang-en; literally Maradonian Church) is a religion, created by fans of the retired Argentine football player Diego Maradona, whom they believe to be the best player of all time.
The Iglesia was founded on October 30, 1998 (Maradona's 38th birthday) in the city of Rosario, Argentina by three fans (Héctor Campomar, Alejandro Verón and Hernán Amez).[2] It could be seen as a type of syncretism or as a religion, depending on what religious definition one chooses to use. It was said by Alejandro Verón, one of the founders: “I have a rational religion, and that’s Catholic Church, and I have a religion passed on my heart, passion, and that’s Diego Maradona.” Supporters of the Maradonian Church, supposedly from all parts of the world, count the years since Maradona's birth in 1960.
Ten Commandments
The "Ten Commandments" of the Iglesia Maradoniana are:[3]
- The ball is never soiled.
- Love football above all else.
- Declare unconditional love for Diego and the beauty of football.
- Defend the Argentina shirt.
- Spread the news of Diego's miracles throughout the universe.
- Honor the temples where he played and his sacred shirts.
- Don't proclaim Diego as a member of any single team.
- Preach and spread the principles of the Church of Maradona.
- Make Diego your middle name.
- Name your first son Diego.