The Vatican has issued a statement expressing displeasure with some scenes of the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics that have drawn condemnation as a mockery of Christianity.

A segment in the July 26 ceremony with performers posing as drag queens and others standing along a long table has set off controversy. Catholic church leaders and others said the presentation was a parody of Leonardo da Vinci's depiction of the famous biblical scene of The Last Supper.

The unusual statement by the Holy See on Saturday said in French that it was saddened by certain scenes at the ceremony, adding that the Vatican cannot but join the voices raised to deplore the offense done to many Christians and believers of other religions.

The statement also said that in a prestigious event where the whole world comes together around common values, there should be no allusions ridiculing the religious convictions of many people.

It went on to say that freedom of expression finds its limit in respect for others.

The artistic director of the opening ceremony, Thomas Jolly, has denied he was inspired by The Last Supper. He said his intension was to show inclusion, kindness and generosity.

French authorities have launched an investigation after Jolly filed a criminal complaint over death threats he allegedly received online.