A Catholic church in Brooklyn has been ordered to have its altar re-blessed after a popstar was given permission to film a provocative music video in front of it.
The Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church, in the historic town of Williamsburg in Virginia faced criticism after singer Sabrina Carpenter shot a controversial music video for her track 'Feather', inside the building.
Brooklyn Bishop, Father Robert Brennan, said he was appalled by the content of the video, in which the performer dances around the church in revealing outfits while she watches men who have wronged her die.
He called for a ‘Mass of Reparation’, in which he blessed the altar with holy water to “restore the sanctity” of the church and “repair the harm” that had been done.
In a statement, the bishop condemned the church for allowing the “inappropriate behaviour unsuitable for a church sanctuary” to take place there, despite being sufficiently informed about its content before filming.
“The parish did not follow diocesan policy regarding filming on Church property, which includes a review of the scenes and script.”
Monsignor Jamie Giantiello was removed from his position as parish vicar but remains a pastor at the church.
The music video, released last week, has received over 5.3 million views on YouTube.
