It’s been half a century since professional-football fans were treated to one of the wildest finishes in the sport’s history. Yet few fans fully understand the religious undertones behind what is now known as the “Immaculate Reception.”On Dec. 23, 1972, the Pittsburgh Steelers were trailing the Oakland Raiders 7-6 with 22 seconds left in their first-round playoff matchup. Barely avoiding a sack, he flung a desperation pass to John “Frenchy” Fuqua halfway down the field. Oakland safety Jack “The Assassin” Tatum arrived as the pass reached Mr. Fuqua. A local announcer dubbed it the “Immaculate Reception.”

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