The painting, by artist Don Little, was painted in the style of a Russian Orthodox icon and shows a haloed Jesus wearing and All Blacks jersey as he dispenses blessings, while clutching a white rugby ball. Talk about dedication. And maybe a little wishful thinking.

The cathedral dean, Frank Nelson, was all for it, commenting that it made sense, seeing as rugby was often referred to as New Zealand’s religion. He also added that:

Central to Christian belief is that God became a human being in this world. What I want people to think about, is that if it were to happen today, why should he not be an All Black?

According to him some people were offended, but most thought it was a “great idea”.

After only a few days of it’s display, the painting was sold to an Australian collector, for an undisclosed amount, with NZ$1,000 ($795) of the proceeds being donated to charity.

Nelson then went on to divulge his love for the Springboks and say that his “world cup loyalties were divided, and that he’s “sitting on the fence on this one”.

Whatever priest, you better start leaning because you know who’s going to win.

Go Bokke.

[Source: news24]